Dengue: DOH Risk Area Map Drops Some West Hawai’i Locations

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 30. DOH image.

No new cases of dengue fever have been reported on the Big Island in the past week, holding the overall confirmed case count at 263.

None of the cases confirmed are “potentially infectious” to mosquitoes.

The Hawai’i Department of Health updated its Risk Area Map, noting a decrease in areas listed last week as being of “some risk.” Currently, Kalaoa and an area just north of Captain Cook in West Hawai’i remain listed as “some risk.” The Hookena area continues to be noted as an area of “moderate risk,” after being marked as such last week. In East Hawai’i, Volcano is the sole area with a risk level noted. The area is listed as “some risk.”

In total, 237 Big Island residents have been infected with the dengue virus, along with 26 Big Island visitors.

Since the outbreak’s September onset, 1,553 potential cases have been excluded from the overall count. The number includes 12 cases in the past day.

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.