The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a new travel-related case of dengue virus on Oʻahu, increasing the state’s total number of cases for 2025 to three. The individual involved in this latest case contracted the virus while traveling in an area where dengue is prevalent.
In response, DOH teams have been dispatched to conduct inspections and implement mosquito control measures in the affected area. The public is urged to adhere to recommended practices to prevent local transmission.
Dengue virus spreads from an infected person to a mosquito, which then transmits it to another person. Although Hawai‘i hosts mosquitoes capable of carrying dengue, the disease is not endemic there; current cases are limited to travelers. Various regions globally are experiencing heightened dengue activity.
Dengue outbreaks occur worldwide, including Central and South America, Asia (including the Republic of the Philippines), the Middle East, Africa, and several Pacific Islands like U.S. territories such as American Samoa and others. Many popular Caribbean tourist destinations, including Puerto Rico, are also impacted.
In 2024, Hawaiʻi reported 16 travel-related dengue cases. Affected individuals had traveled to countries known for endemic dengue before showing symptoms: Brazil, Argentina, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Honduras, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Philippines and India.
Travelers planning visits or returning from areas with dengue risk should take precautions against infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using EPA-registered insect repellent and wearing protective clothing outdoors. Travelers should consult country-specific travel information regarding dengue risk at least four to six weeks before departure.
Upon returning from areas with ongoing transmission risk for three weeks after returnees should avoid mosquito bites. Those developing symptoms within two weeks post-return should seek medical evaluation.
Dengue symptoms vary from mild to severe: fever nausea vomiting rash body aches typically lasting two seven days Severe illness can occur but most recover within a week Recently traveled individuals experiencing these symptoms should contact healthcare providers
In suspected or confirmed dengue areas DOH Vector Control Branch personnel conduct inspections mosquito-reduction activities Reducing mosquito populations lowers transmission risk In areas without reported cases eliminating breeding sites around homes helps prevent mosquitoes
Mosquitoes breed in small standing water amounts Common sites include buckets water-catching plants containers planters rain barrels cups left outside Pouring out standing water reduces breeding potential
For more information visit Disease Outbreak Control Division Vector Control Branch websites
