The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a new travel-related dengue virus case on Oʻahu, raising the total number of cases in the state to 15 for 2024. The distribution includes one case on Kauaʻi, four on Maui, and ten on Oʻahu. The affected individuals contracted the virus while visiting countries where dengue is prevalent.
In response, DOH teams have been dispatched to conduct inspections and implement mosquito control measures in the impacted area. The community is urged to follow best practices to mitigate any potential local transmission.
Dengue is transmitted from an infected person to a mosquito and then to another person. Although Hawai‘i hosts mosquitoes capable of carrying dengue, the disease is not endemic in the state; it appears only among travelers. Currently, various global regions are experiencing increased dengue activity.
Outbreaks occur in Central and South America, Asia—including the Republic of the Philippines—the Middle East, Africa, certain Pacific Islands like American Samoa and others, as well as popular Caribbean tourist destinations such as Puerto Rico.
Travelers heading to or returning from areas with dengue risk should heed CDC advice: use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear protective clothing outdoors, and sleep in screened or air-conditioned rooms or under treated bed nets. It's crucial for travelers to review country-specific information four to six weeks before departure for updated guidance on dengue prevention.
Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches lasting two to seven days. While most recover within a week without severe illness, those recently traveling who experience symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
In suspected or confirmed areas of dengue presence, DOH's Vector Control Branch conducts inspections and activities aimed at reducing mosquito populations. In unaffected areas, residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water around their homes—such as in buckets or planters—to prevent mosquito breeding.
For further details about preventing outbreaks and controlling vectors in Hawai‘i visit the Disease Outbreak Control Division (DOCD) website or Vector Control Branch (VCB) website.