Dengue Fever: Two Cases Confirmed, 254 Total

Spraying operations being conducted on Nov. 2. DOH file photo.

The dengue fever count on the Big Island rose by two Thursday afternoon.

Hawai’i Department of Health officials say two new cases have been confirmed, bringing the total number of cases since the outbreak began to 254. On Wednesday, no new cases were added to the count, with a total of three cases added to the list since Monday.

Thursday’s confirmed two were added to the list as residents of the island. One was under the age of 18.

In addition to the new cases, DOH is currently listing two individuals as “potentially infectious,” with onset of illness dates ranging from Feb. 1 to Feb. 6. The count of two is up from one listed as “potentially infectious” on Wednesday.

The remaining 252 cases are no longer infectious, according to DOH.

Waipio Valley Lookout will be closed on Friday as DOH personnel proactively spray the area, according to Hawai’i County Civil Defense.  The closure will begin at 8 a.m. and, weather permitting, will re-open at 12 p.m.

Since the outbreak began, 1,177 potential cases of dengue have been excluded from the overall count. This number includes those who have had negative test results and/or did not meet case criteria.

Community meetings are being held through the month of February on a weekly basis in both East and West Hawai’i.

Hilo sessions take place on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. at the State Office Building, located on Aupuni Street. Kona sessions are held at the same time, but at the West Hawai’i Civic Center, Mayor’s Conference Room.

Tuesday sessions are being held at Yano Hall in Captain Cook, beginning at 12:30 p.m.

The community meetings provide updates and answers to questions from the community about the dengue fever outbreak on the Big Island, as well as education about the prevalence, transmission, and symptoms of dengue fever, along with outbreak response efforts, how to interpret case counts and maps, and the best ways to “Fight the Bite.”

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 concerned that they may have contracted dengue fever, they should contact their primary care physician.

Civil Defense suggests the following to aid in reducing potential mosquito breeding areas around homes and businesses:

• Remove or eliminate standing water that provides sources for mosquito breeding such as buckets or puddles.
• Fix leaky faucets and outdoor hoses that are dripping water.
• Treat bromeliads and other plants that hold water with a larvacide or chlorine bleach solution.
• Clean gutters to allow water to drain freely.
• Repair screens and windows to help keep mosquitoes out.
• Dispose of old tires at no charge at county transfer stations islandwide.

Mosquito concerns should be reported to 974-6010 in East Hawai‘i or 322-1513 in West Hawai‘i.