HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawaii health officials have identified a new travel-related case of dengue fever on Oahu, bringing the total number of dengue cases in the state for 2024 to 11.
This includes one case on Kauai, three on Maui, and seven on Oahu. The individuals affected were exposed to the virus in countries where dengue is common.
The Department of Health (DOH) sent teams to inspect the area and manage mosquito control efforts. They’re asking the community to help reduce the risk of local transmission by following some preventive measures.
If you’re traveling to or from regions where dengue is a concern, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends taking precautions.
This includes using EPA-approved insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and staying in air-conditioned rooms or using mosquito nets.
It’s also a good idea to check travel advisories for the latest information on dengue risk and prevention measures.
After returning from a dengue-risk area, continue to protect yourself from mosquito bites for three weeks and seek medical attention if symptoms appear within two weeks.
Dengue symptoms can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches, typically lasting two to seven days.
While most people recover after about a week, severe cases can be serious. If you’ve recently traveled and are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider.