DOH Reports Travel-Related Dengue Case on Oahu, Fifth Case This Year

June 28, 2024

Maui News

KAHULUI – The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has shown a case of dengue virus linked to O’ahu. The individual drove to an area where dengue fever is known to spread.

Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches. Symptoms usually last from two to seven days and serious or even fatal illnesses can occur; Most people recover after about a week. . If you have recently traveled to a place where dengue is not unusual and you are experiencing those symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

There have been five known cases of related dengue in the state (one in Maui, four in O’ahu) so far in 2024. During these surveys, other exposed people came from various parts of the world where dengue transmission is known. . happen. Several regions of the world are recently experiencing higher-than-general dengue activity.

The dengue virus is transmitted from an inflamed user to a mosquito. Although Hawaii is home to the kind of mosquitoes that can cause dengue, the disease is not endemic (established) there and cases have recently been detected only among travelers. Dengue outbreaks occur in many parts of the world, including Central and South America, Asia (including the Republic of the Philippines), the Middle East, Africa, and some Pacific islands, including the American territories of American Samoa and the Federated States of Micronesia. Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, and in many popular Caribbean tourist destinations (adding Puerto Rico).

Anyone who plans for or has entered an area affected by dengue is at risk of infection. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends users take the same usual precautions when visiting areas with a threat of dengue. This includes:

• Use of an insect repellent registered through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• Wear shirts with sleeves and pants outdoors.

• Sleep in an air-conditioned room or a room with mosquito nets or an insecticide-treated net.

Some countries are reporting an increase in the number of cases. Therefore, it is important, 4 to six weeks before your trip, to consult country-specific data for up-to-date maximum recommendations on the dengue threat and safety measures for that country. Travelers returning from a domain with a dengue threat should take steps to avoid mosquito bites for three weeks, and if dengue symptoms appear within two weeks of returning, they should seek medical attention.

In spaces where dengue is suspected or confirmed, Hawaii Department of Health (Vector Control Branch) personnel conduct mosquito inspections and relief activities. Reducing mosquito populations reduces the threat of dengue transmission to others. In spaces where no cases of dengue have been reported As reported, getting rid of mosquito breeding sites in and around your home is a smart practice. Mosquitoes only want small amounts of drinking water to breed. Common home breeding sites include:

•Cubes

• Water harvesting (such as bromeliads)

• Small containers

•Gardeners

• Rain barrels

• Glasses of water left outside

Simply pouring boxes full of drinking water eliminates the threat of mosquito breeding.

Finally, no matter where you live, if the domain is prone to mosquitoes, wear long sleeves and long pants and/or use EPA-approved repellents, especially after dark and to decrease the chances of mosquito bites.

For more information, see the Division of Disease Outbreak Control (DOCD) online page and the Vector Control Directorate (VCB) online page.

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