HONOLULU — There are now 50 cases of the omicron variant of COIVD-19 in Hawaii. The Hawaii Department of Health announced the new numbers late Monday afternoon in a press release.

Forty-nine of the cases were on Oahu, and the source and location of the remaining case is still being investigated. The release noted that it is reasonable to believe that omicron cases are present on the neighbor islands.

Early research shows that the omicron variant spreads more easily than earlier variants of the virus, however more data are needed to determine the severity of omicron’s infections.

DOH director, Dr. Libby Char, noted in a press conference last week that even if the omicron variant is milder than the delta variant, it is more contagious, and can result in more cases of hospitalized patients.

“From a numbers perspective, a small percentage of a very big number is still a big number,” she said last week.

The DOH notes that COVID-19 vaccines are expected to prevent severe illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths due to infections with the omicron variant. Despite this, breakthrough infections are expected, and the DOH encourages all who are eligible to get a COVID-19 booster.

Those who experience COVID-19 symptoms, even if mild, are asked to stay home from work, school and other activities; they should also avoid contact with other people and get tested.

Anyone who is in close contact with a COVID-19 positive person should get tested regardless of their vaccination status.

DOH also advises people to administer home tests, which are available for purchase at local pharmacies, before and after travel and before attending gatherings or large events.

Information on free testing and vaccines is available at hawaiicovid19.com.