Miloli’i Beach Park Reopens, No New Dengue Cases Confirmed

An Aedes aegypti mosquito is pictured here. The mosquito is one of two in Hawai’i known to spread the dengue virus. Hawai’i Department of Health photo.

Miloli’i Beach Park reopened on Friday. The area was closed for about two-and-a-half months after several cases of dengue fever were linked to the area.

However, no new cases have been associated with the Miloli’i Beach Park and Village Community since Jan. 20. Hawai’i County officials say spraying and treatment has allowed for the park to safely reopen.

Hawai’i County Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira, who is also the Incident Commander in the Big Island outbreak, said in Friday’s dengue update radio message that park visitors should still remember to wear repellent.

As of Friday afternoon, no new cases of dengue have been reported since the previous day. Hawai’i Department of Health officials announced the first case in two weeks on Thursday, bringing the total number of cases since the onset of the outbreak to 261.

“Yesterday’s one new confirmed case helps to remind everyone that as previously stated, this outbreak remains active and is not anticipated to be considered over anytime in the near future,” Oliveira said.

A total of 236 Big Island residents have been infected with the dengue virus. The remainder 25 cases were within visitors to the island

Waipio Valley remains closed.

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.