First batch of Kulani Correctional Facility COVID-19 test results all negative

The state Department of Public Safety reported Wednesday that it received the first batch of COVID-19 test results for 164 inmates screened for the novel coronavirus Tuesday at Kulani Correctional Facility.

All 78 of the results received were negative, according to the department. The Kulani Correctional Facility to date has seen just one COVID-19 case, which was announced Sept. 11 among a staff member who last worked at the correctional center Sept. 6.

At Hawaii Community Correctional Center, one inmate remains listed as “active” after testing positive for COVID-19. No additional cases have cropped at the facility after the department announced the positive test result Sunday.

The department is conducting mass testing at its facilities throughout the state after an outbreak of COVID-19 at Oahu Community Correctional Center sickened more than 400 inmates and staff. Of those to fall ill, 366 have recovered.

“The outbreak at the Oahu Community Correctional Center is under control,” according to a press release. “There was one new positive inmate result reported today. There are currently no inmates hospitalized. Over 96% of all inmates who tested positive have recovered. There was also one new staff case reported today. Total PSD staff recoveries increased to 79.”

The order of facilities next in line for mass testing is still being worked out, according to the department.