Three Remain ‘Potentially Infectious’ in Dengue Outbreak

Red pins represent confirmed cases of dengue fever, yellow pins represent potential dengue fever cases under investigation, and blue pins represent cases that turned out to be negative. Hawai’i County Civil Defense map, as of Jan. 25.

No new cases of dengue were confirmed on the Big Island Tuesday, however, the number of individuals who are “potentially infectious” remain at three.

The Hawai’i Department of Health also excluded another eight cases from the overall dengue count. Those cases were previously “pending” and were not counted towards the count as a result of negative test results or lack of case criteria. The total number excluded from the count is 993 cases.

So far, the outbreak, which was first known about in October, with cases dating back to September, has impacted 237 individuals. That number includes 214 residents of the Big Island and 23 visitors, including 44 victims under the age of 18.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense released a new map locating cases on the Big Island. It continues to show wide spread numbers of confirmed cases. The map includes all case findings, even those that are no longer infectious.

The access road to Waipio Valley, as well as Milolii and Hookena Beach Park, remains closed.

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.