DOH Removes All Risk Areas as Dengue Count Nears One-Month Halt

The Hawai’i Department of Health updated its map of potential areas of dengue fever infection, based on confirmed case information as of Wednesday, April 20. DOH image.

The Hawai’i Department of Health removed all pinned points on its “Risk Areas for Potential Dengue Infection” map Wednesday.

Last week, DOH continued to list Kalaoa and Hookena as “some risk” areas.

On Wednesday, the updated map had “No Recent Activity Reported” stamped across the map with no indication of pinpointed locations noting potential infections.

Since the Big Island outbreak began in September, 263 cases of dengue have been confirmed.

There have been no confirmed cases of dengue fever on the island since March 24, and the last infectious case was listed as no longer infectious to mosquitoes on March 17.

A total of 1,629 potential cases of dengue have been excluded from the overall count by DOH. The number includes three cases in the past day. Cases excluded include those that underwent laboratory testing and came back negative and/or did not meet case criteria for dengue.

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.

Hawai’i County 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.