DOH Updates Dengue Fever Map, Count Up to 79

Another five cases of dengue fever have been confirmed by the Hawai’i Department of Health, bringing the total number of individuals infected since the onset of illness on Sept. 11 to 79.

DOH officials released new map information, highlighting areas of potential risk on a scale including “high risk,” “moderate risk,” and “some risk” areas.

A section of West Hawai’i spanning from Kailua-Kona to Captain Cook, along with an area from Naalehu down to the southern tip of the Big Island, have been included as areas that are considered “high risk” for dengue fever.

Hilo and Pahoa have been listed as “moderate risk.”

Volcano, as well as a portion of the Kohala coast, Waimea, and an area near Hawi, are highlighted as “some risk” areas.

The DOH reports that the risk levels are based on where confirmed cases of dengue may have contracted the disease, as well as other determining factors, such as the number of cases reported that had visited the areas and observed mosquito activity.

Of the 79 cases of dengue fever that have been confirmed, 20 of the cases have been within individuals under the age of 18.

The most recent onset of illness was Nov. 12, according to DOH officials Thursday.

In addition, 120 potential cases reported on the Big Island have been determined not to be dengue fever.

Over the weekend, several public schools will undergo spraying and treatment operations.

The schools are reportedly being treated as a preventative measure due to their proximity to confirmed cases in the area. On Wednesday, Hawai’i County Civil Defense said none of the schools had students with confirmed cases of dengue fever.

Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, joint or muscle paints, headache or pain behind the eyes, and rash.

Those interesting in obtaining general information about the current Big Island dengue 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’re 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.