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Nursing homes account for 40% of all virus deaths nationwide, but there have been very few cases in Hawaii. Still, some advocates believe more testing and monitoring is needed in long-term care facilities.

As of Wednesday, four patients and one employee at Hale Nani have been diagnosed in less than a week.

As of Tuesday, two patients and an employee at Hale Nani Rehabilitation and Nursing Center have fallen ill.

The state Department of Health said this is only the second nursing home patient in Hawaii to be diagnosed with the virus.

Family members in large households are the source of many new cases, but some officials think that big Memorial Day gatherings and recent protests will also drive the numbers up.

By looking closely at the antibodies developed by recovered coronavirus patients, University of Hawaii scientists hope to help find ways to halt the progression of the disease.

The state health director said the risk posed to residents and other staff at the facility is “low.”

When the virus spread, a nonprofit in Papakolea Hawaiian Homestead quickly shifted gears to ensuring  kupuna got food, supplies and necessary health care.

The state is seeking a $650,000 federal grant to set up a pilot program for using medication-assisted treatment to address drug dependency in corrections facilities statewide.

Interisland travel will be opened on June 16. Passengers will be subject to a temperature check and anyone with a fever over 100.4 degrees will not be allowed to board.