The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has reported a new travel-related dengue virus case on Oʻahu. The individual had traveled to a region where dengue is prevalent. DOH teams have been deployed for inspection and mosquito control in the affected area, and the community is urged to help reduce the risk of local transmission by following recommended practices.
In 2024, nine travel-related dengue cases have been identified in the state: one on Kauaʻi, two on Maui, and six on Oʻahu. These cases were linked to various global locations currently experiencing higher-than-normal dengue activity.
Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches. They typically last two to seven days. Although severe illness can occur, most people recover within about a week. Those who have recently traveled and are experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice.
Dengue virus spreads from an infected person to a mosquito and then to another person. While Hawai‘i has mosquitoes capable of carrying dengue, the disease is not endemic in the state; current cases are only seen in travelers. Dengue outbreaks occur in many parts of the world including Central and South America, Asia (including the Republic of the Philippines), the Middle East, Africa, some Pacific Islands (including U.S. territories like American Samoa), Micronesia, Marshall Islands, Palau, and popular Caribbean tourist destinations such as Puerto Rico.
Travelers to areas with dengue risk should follow CDC precautions: use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants outdoors, sleep in air-conditioned rooms or rooms with window screens or under insecticide-treated bed nets. It is also important for travelers to review country-specific travel information four to six weeks before departure for updated guidance on dengue risk and prevention measures.
Returning travelers from areas with dengue risk should prevent mosquito bites for three weeks. If symptoms develop within two weeks upon return, they should seek medical evaluation.
In suspected or confirmed dengue areas in Hawai‘i, DOH personnel conduct inspections and mosquito-reducing activities. Reducing mosquito populations lowers the chances of disease transmission. Eliminating mosquito-breeding sites at home is also advised; mosquitoes need only small amounts of standing water to breed.
Residents are encouraged to wear long sleeves and pants or use EPA-registered repellents at dusk and dawn if their area is prone to mosquitoes.
For more information visit the Disease Outbreak Control Division (DOCD) website or Vector Control Branch (VCB) website.
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