Hawaii Hits Milestone with 16th Travel-Linked Dengue Virus Case Reported

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has reported a new travel-related dengue virus case on Oahu.

This raises the total number of cases in the state to 16 reported in 2024. Additionally, there has been one case on Kauai, four on Maui, and 11 on Oahu.

State authorities stated that the affected traveler was exposed in a region where dengue is prevalent.

DOH teams have been sent to conduct inspections and mosquito control in the impacted area.

The public is encouraged to help diminish the risk of potential local transmission by following the best practices outlined below.

About dengue

The dengue virus is transmitted from an infected individual to a mosquito and then to another person. Although Hawaii is inhabited by the type of mosquitoes that can transmit dengue, the illness is not endemic to the state, and current cases are solely linked to travelers.

Travel precautions

Numerous regions globally are presently facing higher-than-average dengue activity.

Dengue outbreaks take place in various parts of the world, including Central and South America, parts of Asia (such as the Republic of the Philippines), the Middle East, Africa, and certain Pacific Islands including the U.S. territories of American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau, along with numerous popular visiting spots in the Caribbean (like Puerto Rico).

Any individual planning to visit or who has recently traveled to a dengue-affected area is at risk for infection. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers observe standard precautions when visiting areas at risk for dengue. This involves using an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent, donning long-sleeved shirts and long pants while outdoors, and sleeping in an air-conditioned space, a room fitted with window screens, or beneath an insecticide-treated bed net.

Certain countries are witnessing a rise in case numbers, so it is crucial to check country-specific travel guidance for the most current information on dengue risk and prevention measures four to six weeks prior to departure. Travelers returning from an area where dengue risk exists should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites for three weeks and seek medical attention if they develop dengue symptoms within two weeks of returning.

Symptoms

Dengue symptoms can range from mild to severe, manifesting as fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches. These symptoms typically persist for two to seven days; although severe and potentially life-threatening conditions can arise, most individuals recover within approximately a week. If you have recently traveled and are experiencing such symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional.

In areas where dengue is suspected or confirmed, Hawaii DOH personnel (Vector Control Branch) perform inspections and activities to reduce mosquito populations. Lowering mosquito numbers decreases the likelihood of dengue transmission among individuals. In areas without reported dengue cases, removing mosquito breeding sites around your home is advisable. Mosquitoes only require small amounts of stagnant water to reproduce. Common breeding locations at home include buckets, water-collecting plants (like Bromeliads), small containers, planters, rain barrels, or even cups left outside. Simply emptying containers of stagnant water prevents potential mosquito breeding.

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