The recent confirmation of an Oahu resident diagnosed with Dengue Fever marks the 11th case of the virus affecting Hawaii residents in 2024. The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) informed that a traveler who had previously visited a country where Dengue is prevalent contracted the infection, as reported by KITV.
For the 11 cases noted this year, seven hail from Oahu, three from Maui, and one from Kauai. After not revealing the specific location of the affected area this time, DOH teams were deployed to inspect and control the local mosquito population, reminding the public to stay on high alert for potential breeding sites and protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Symptoms of Dengue, which include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches, can last from two to seven days. The Star-Advertiser reports that while most people recover within a week, the virus can lead to more severe illnesses. To mitigate local transmission, the DOH has emphasized the importance of proactive measures like mosquito control in suspected areas of Dengue presence.
The DOH has urged those planning travel to existing dengue-endemic areas to apply EPA-registered insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and exercise caution during outdoor activities around dawn and dusk. Dengue cases have been linked to travelers who visited regions with active transmission, such as Central or South America and Asia. Upon returning from these areas, residents are advised to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks and to seek medical attention if symptoms manifest within two weeks, according to the Department of Health guidance.
