The Hawaii Department of Health has confirmed one travel-related case of dengue fever on the island of Oahu, where the infected person had traveled to an area where dengue fever is known to be widespread.
Symptoms of dengue fever range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, body aches, etc. Symptoms usually last for two to seven days, and although the illness can be severe and life-threatening, most people recover in about a week.
If you have recently traveled to an area where dengue fever is prevalent and are experiencing these symptoms, contact your health care provider.
So far in 2024, there have been five travel-related dengue cases confirmed in the state (one on Maui and four on Oahu). During investigation of these cases, infection was found to have been due to travel from various locations around the world where dengue is known to be transmitted. Multiple regions around the world are currently experiencing higher than normal dengue activity.
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The dengue virus spreads from infected people to mosquitoes, and then to people. Although Hawaii is home to mosquitoes that carry dengue, the disease is not endemic here and recent cases have only been seen among tourists.
Dengue outbreaks occur in many parts of the world, including Central and South America, Asia (including the Philippines), the Middle East, Africa, some Pacific islands (including American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau), and many popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico.
Anyone who plans to travel or has traveled to an area where dengue is prevalent is at risk for infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently advises travelers to take the usual precautions when traveling to areas where there is a risk of dengue fever transmission, including:
As some countries are reporting an increase in the number of cases, it is important to check country-specific travel information 4 to 6 weeks before traveling for the latest guidance on dengue risks and prevention measures in that country.
Travellers returning from areas with a risk of dengue fever should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites for three weeks and should seek medical advice if they develop symptoms of dengue fever within two weeks of returning home.
In areas where dengue is suspected or confirmed, the Hawaii State Department of Health's Vector Control Division conducts testing and mosquito reduction activities. Reducing the mosquito population reduces the chances of transmitting dengue to others.
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In areas where dengue fever cases have not been reported, it is recommended that you eliminate mosquito breeding sites in and around your home. Mosquitoes only need small amounts of standing water to breed. Common breeding sites in the home include:
A bucket A plant that will hold water (such as a bromeliad) A small container A planter A rainwater tank A glass of water placed outside
Simply discard any accumulated water in the container and you will eliminate any chance of mosquito breeding.
Finally, no matter where you live, if you are in a mosquito-prone area, wear long sleeves and long pants and use an EPA-registered, approved repellent to reduce your chances of being bitten, especially at dusk and dawn.
For more information, please visit the Disease Outbreak Control Division website and the Vector Control Branch website.
