Haleiwa, Hawaii – Another case of travel-related dengue has been confirmed by the state Health Department, raising concerns in the community. The recent case, reported in Haleiwa, comes just days after another travel-related case was reported on Oahu. Health officials are urging residents to take extra precautions as the mosquito-borne disease poses a significant risk in the area.
The Hawaii Department of Health is taking immediate action to address the situation, especially due to the high influx of visitors around Haleiwa Harbor. With dense populations of the Aedes albopictus mosquito, a known carrier of the dengue virus, found in the resident’s home and surrounding areas, transmission of the disease becomes more likely. Vector control teams are actively treating the affected area and will continue to monitor and implement necessary measures.
Residents are advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using repellent or wearing protective clothing, as well as eliminating potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Door-to-door inspections are being conducted, with free inspections offered to residents. Matt Kurano, head of DOH’s vector control branch, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in preventing the spread of the virus.
Dengue, a virus transmitted from infected person to mosquito to person, can cause symptoms such as fever, nausea, rash, and body aches. While potentially life-threatening, most individuals recover within a week. Although Hawaii is home to mosquitoes capable of carrying dengue, the disease is not endemic in the state. Since the beginning of the year, there have been 10 travel-related cases reported in Hawaii, with travelers visiting regions like Central and South America, as well as Asia.
To learn more about preventing mosquito-borne diseases, residents are encouraged to visit the DOH website for additional information and resources. The community’s vigilance and cooperation are crucial in combating the spread of dengue in the Haleiwa area. By taking proactive measures and staying informed, residents can help mitigate the risk of transmission and protect their health and well-being.