Big Island Dengue Fever Count Rises to 33

The number of individuals on the Big Island affected by the dengue fever outbreak continues to climb.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Hawai’i Department of Health announced that the total number of confirmed cases of dengue fever on the Big Island has reached 33, six more cases than what were reported Monday.

Twenty-five of the cases have involved Big Island residents, while the other eight have affected visitors.

This map as of Nov. 6 is the Hawai’i Department of Health’s most updated image showing where individuals who contracted dengue fever visited. DOH image.

Four pediatric cases have been reported by DOH.

It’s been just over two weeks since DOH officials first told Big Island Now that they were looking into two potential cases of dengue on the Big Island.

Two cases were subsequently confirmed three days later, and officials said they were looking at additional reports. By Nov. 3, nine additional cases of dengue fever had been confirmed. From there, the total number grew by four almost daily.

On Monday, the case count was at 27, causing the island and state to take a look at preventive measures and procedures.

The DOH launched a new campaign Monday, called “Fight the Bite,” which aims to educate and create awareness about dengue fever.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense announced on Tuesday that continued spraying is being conducted in areas around the island, including DOH spraying operations at various locations in Na’alehu.

Community meetings regarding the outbreak began Monday at Yano Hall in Captain Cook and will continue through next week on the following schedule:

• Tuesday, Nov. 10 at Na’alehu Community Center
• Thursday, Nov. 12 at the Konawaena High School cafeteria
• Friday, Nov. 13 at the Honoka’a High School cafeteria
• Monday, Nov. 16 at the Hilo High School cafeteria
• Tuesday, Nov. 17 at the Kea’au High School cafeteria.

All community meetings begin at 6 p.m.

Symptoms of dengue include fever, joint or muscle paints, headache or pain behind the eyes, and rash.

Anyone who thinks they may have contracted dengue fever should call DOH’s Disease Investigation Branch at (808) 586-8362 or contact their primary care physician.

For more information, visit the DOH website.