DOH: Two Confirmed, Four Possible Dengue Fever Cases

Two confirmed and four probable cases of dengue fever on the Big Island are currently being investigated by the Hawai’i State Department of Health.

Big Island Now reported on Monday that the DOH was investigating two unconfirmed cases.

Additional testing is being conducted by the DOH, who says the cases have been locally-acquired. The results of the testing and confirmation at the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is pending.

Clinicians throughout the Big Island were issued a medical advisory Thursday morning urging the report of suspected dengue fever cases.

“Although dengue is not endemic to Hawai’i, we do have the mosquito species capable of transmitting the disease,” stated State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park. “It’s likely an infected traveler infected the local mosquito population, which led to this cluster, so we want the public to be aware of this mosquito-borne disease and the steps they can take to prevent infection.”

Those affected by dengue fever are likely to begin to have symptoms within a week after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Fever, joint or muscle pains, headache or pain behind the eyes, and a rash are among the general symptoms of individuals infected.

Individuals experiencing the afore mentioned symptoms should contact their healthcare provider and avoid further exposure to mosquitos

“Our local environmental health assessments have not found significant mosquito activity in the affected area,” added Hawai’i District Health Officer Aaron Ueno. “As a precautionary measure, the department is conducting mosquito prevention activities, such as spraying with consent from property owners.”

The most likely way to contract the dengue virus is through the bite of an infected mosquito.

To learn about dengue fever, visit the DOH website.