Dengue ‘Potential Infection’ Count at Three

The total number of individuals who have been infected by the dengue fever virus continues to tally, but the Hawai’i Department of Health notes that the number of people who are potentially infectious currently is low.

Monday’s numbers include a total of 167 cases of dengue since the initial recorded onset of illness in September and the beginning of the outbreak in late October. That number includes only three individuals who are potentially infectious.

Those three individuals have an onset of illness ranging from Dec. 11 through Dec. 13, according to officials.

The count of those potentially infectious does not includes cases that may be pending test results.

Eighteen of the cases involved in the Big Island outbreak have been visitors to the island. Another 24 of the total were those under the age of 18.

Last Monday, the case count sat at 149, increasing over the week by 18 cases.

DOH began to report the number of “currently infections” individuals last Wednesday. Since then, the number of potentially infectious individuals has dropped from seven to three.

In addition to the identified positive cases, DOH reports that an additional 15 individuals have been excluded from the count based on negative test results and/or not meeting case criteria.

Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, joint or muscle pain, 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.

Anyone who thinks they may have contracted dengue fever on the Big Island should call 933-0912 if they are 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.

For more information, visit the DOH website.