The Hawai’i State Department of Health’s “Fight the Bite” campaign got a $23,000 boost through the donation of mosquito repellent products from two chain stores.
DOH and the County of Hawai’i announced Tuesday that Longs Drugs and Foodland Super Market, Ltd. donated the supplies to aid in the distribution of anti-dengue resources to at-risk populations on the Big Island, including those who have housing insecurities and individuals who have difficulty purchasing the items.
Longs Drugs, a member of CVS Health company, donated 220 cases of repellent with over 2,400 cans of spray. Foodland provided 20 cases of 4,800 individually wrapped towelettes.
“Ending the spread of dengue fever in Hawai’i is a team effort, and we are grateful to Longs Drugs and Foodland for joining us as we work to prioritize the health and safety of people in our state,” said Virginia Pressler, DOH director. “A major component of fighting the spread of dengue fever is the prevention of mosquito bites – and this donation of repellants will directly aid us in protecting residents and visitors from bites on Hawai’i Island.”
Dengue is spread by mosquitoes carrying the illness from an infected individual. The key to stopping the spread of the disease is stopping the transmission, which begins with preventing mosquito bites.
In addition to using repellent, DOH recommends wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when in areas with heavy mosquito activity, using indoor insecticides, and clearing areas with standing water.
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Big Island Now will bring you the latest case count numbers and information when they become available Tuesday afternoon.
Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, joint or muscle paints, headache or pain behind the eyes, and rash.
Those interested in obtaining general information about the current Big Island dengue fever investigation should call 2-1-1 and talk with Aloha United Way.
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Anyone who thinks they may have contracted dengue fever on the Big Island should call 933-0912 if they’re located in East Hawai’i or 322-4877 in West Hawai’i. If an individual is currently ill and worried that they may have contracted dengue fever, they should contact their primary care physician.
Mosquito concerns should be reported to 974-6010 in East Hawai’i or 322-1513 in West Hawai’i.
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