NHCH Reports Potential Dengue Fever Case

Another case of potential dengue fever is being investigated by the Hawai’i Department of Health at North Hawai’i Community Hospital.

Although not yet confirmed, the potential case could raise the number of locally acquired dengue fever cases on the Big Island to 20.

NHCH officials say the hospital and its staff members have been in constant communication with the DOH regarding potential cases, testing, and results.

A spokesperson at the hospital said its staff is being vigilant and that the hospital’s Infection Control Department is working with staff members regarding symptoms and testing protocols.

No cases have been confirmed at NHCH, and the hospital has had “minimal visits and calls from people with concerns about possible exposure,” according to the spokesperson.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira said Thursday evening cases in addition to the 19 confirmed are being investigated by DOH.

Kona Community Hospital and Hilo Medical Center numbers were not immediately available.

The DOH initially said that cases of dengue fever were being investigated on the Big Island on Oct. 26. Since then, the number of infected individuals has grown to 19 confirmed cases.

Those infected with dengue fever generally have symptoms including high fever, joint and muscle pain, severe headaches, eye pain, and rash. There’s potential that individuals will only have a mild fever.

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.