The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has reported a travel-related case of dengue virus on Oʻahu, marking the first such case in 2025. The traveler was exposed to the virus in a country where dengue is prevalent.
DOH teams have been sent to inspect and control mosquitoes in the affected area. The community is urged to follow best practices to prevent local transmission.
Dengue virus spreads from person to mosquito and then to another person. Although Hawai‘i hosts mosquitoes capable of carrying dengue, the disease is not endemic in the state and cases are typically linked to travelers. Currently, several regions worldwide are experiencing increased dengue activity.
Dengue outbreaks occur globally, including in Central and South America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, some Pacific Islands like American Samoa and Puerto Rico, among others.
Travelers visiting areas with dengue risk should heed CDC advice: use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing outdoors, and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms or under insecticide-treated nets. Travelers should check for updated guidance four to six weeks before their trip and avoid mosquito bites for three weeks after returning. If symptoms develop within two weeks of return, medical evaluation is advised.
Dengue symptoms range from mild to severe—fever, nausea, rash—and last about a week. Though severe illness can occur, most recover within this time frame.
In suspected or confirmed areas of dengue presence, DOH’s Vector Control Branch undertakes inspections and mosquito-reducing measures. Reducing mosquitoes decreases transmission chances. In unaffected areas, eliminating standing water at home can prevent breeding sites.
Mosquitoes breed in small water collections found in items like buckets or plant containers; emptying these removes breeding potential.
For more details visit the Disease Outbreak Control Division (DOCD) website or Vector Control Branch (VCB) website.
