HCCD: Waipio Lookout to Close for Preventative Spraying

The Hawai’i Department of Health updated its map of potential areas of dengue fever infection, based on confirmed case information as of Wednesday, March 16. DOH image.

No new cases of dengue fever were reported by the Hawai’i Department of Health on Wednesday.

The case count remains at 261 confirmed cases, with just one confirmed within the past three weeks.

In addition, DOH is not listing any cases as “potentially infectious” to mosquitoes.

An updated map released Wednesday indicating areas around the island that are identified as “Risk Areas for Potential Dengue Infection” excludes Hilo, Kailua-Kona and Kea’au this week. Volcano, however was marked as an area of “some risk,” along with the Hookena area. The Captain Cook area remains on the list as “some risk.”

Hawai’i County Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira announced in a radio message that the Waipio lookout will be closed on Thursday, as preventative mosquito treatment and spraying take place in the area.

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.