The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a new travel-related case of dengue virus on Oʻahu, increasing the state’s total to 14 cases in 2025. Of these, one case was reported on Maui and 13 on Oʻahu. The individual involved in the latest case contracted the virus while traveling in an area where dengue is common and is not linked to previous cases.
In response, DOH teams have been sent to inspect and carry out mosquito control measures in the affected location. The department encourages residents to follow recommended practices to prevent local transmission.
Dengue virus spreads when a mosquito bites an infected person and then transmits it to another person. While mosquitoes capable of carrying dengue are present in Hawai‘i, the disease is not considered endemic there, with current cases limited to travelers.
Dengue remains a persistent threat throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including parts of Central and South America, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, several Pacific Islands such as American Samoa and Palau, as well as popular Caribbean destinations like Puerto Rico.
Travelers planning visits to areas with known dengue risk are advised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to take precautions such as using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing outdoors, and sleeping in protected environments like air-conditioned rooms or under insecticide-treated bed nets.
Countries including Fiji, French Polynesia, Samoa, Tonga, the Philippines, Vietnam, Colombia, Cuba, El Salvador and Nicaragua have reported increased dengue activity. Travelers should consult updated travel advisories at least four to six weeks before departure for guidance on risks and prevention strategies.
Ongoing outbreaks declared in 2024 continue into 2025 in Puerto Rico—which has extended its outbreak declaration through December 2025—and the U.S. Virgin Islands. American Samoa declared a dengue outbreak on July 7, 2025. There were also reports of local transmission in California, Florida and Texas during 2024; Florida continues reporting cases this year. The Philippines faces a significant increase in dengue infections.
Those returning from areas where dengue is prevalent should avoid mosquito bites for three weeks after their return. If symptoms develop within two weeks—such as fever, nausea, vomiting, rash or body aches—travelers are urged to seek medical attention promptly.
“Individuals who have recently traveled and are experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider,” according to DOH guidance. “Healthcare providers and individuals who suspect a dengue infection are advised to call the Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586.”
DOH’s Vector Control Branch personnel conduct inspections and mosquito-reduction activities wherever suspected or confirmed cases arise. Reducing mosquito populations helps limit further spread of the disease. In unaffected areas without reported cases yet identified by health authorities, residents can help by eliminating standing water around homes that serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes—including buckets or small containers left outside.
For more information about ongoing efforts or preventive tips against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever visit DOH’s Disease Outbreak Control Division (DOCD) or Vector Control Branch (VCB) websites.
