Hawaiian authorities now suggest that all COVID-19 travel restriction could soon be lifted. According to Lt. Governor. Josh Green, a change could be made by the spring.
Gov. David Ige has said that the Safe Travels program of the state will not include booster shots on the list for visitors.
He had previously indicated that boosters might be necessary. However, this was due to a spike in cases caused by the omicron variation. Hospitalizations at the time were on a steep rise.
Hospitalizations fell before the new policy could be implemented.
It is obvious that the end of restrictions depends on how the virus behaves. Green stated that the restrictions would have been lifted much sooner if omicron had not emerged as the most contagious virus variant.
Visitors from the United States to Hawaii must provide either a positive test or proof that they have received all vaccinations if want to bypass Hawaii’s self-quarantine of five days upon arrival.
Americans who are entering the U.S. from another country must follow the same rules. They must provide proof of vaccination, and a negative result from a test done within 24 hours prior to their arrival in Hawaii.
Nearly 60,000 cases were reported and more than 400 hospitalizations occurred during the peak of omicron in the state.
As of February 9, these numbers had dropped dramatically. Over 75% of residents in the state are fully immunized, and 36% have been boosted.
Maui’s mayor has responded by eliminating the booster requirement to enter restaurants and other recreation spaces.
Remote workers who enjoy traveling will welcome the new restrictions. The pandemic caused untold damage worldwide but it also allowed many people discover how much they enjoy working from home.
Hawaii could benefit from the tourism generated by remote workers who are not restricted by COVID-19.
