The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed one travel-related dengue virus case on Oʻahu in an individual who traveled to a region where dengue is known to be spread.
Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches. Symptoms typically last two to seven days and although severe and even life-threatening illness can occur, most people recover after about a week.
There have been five confirmed travel-related dengue cases identified in the state (one on Maui, four on Oʻahu) so far in 2024. During these case investigations, travel exposure came from various locations around the world where dengue transmission is known to occur. Multiple regions around the world are currently experiencing higher- than-normal dengue activity.
Dengue virus is spread from infected person to mosquito to person. While Hawaiʻi is home to the type of mosquitoes that can carry dengue, the disease is not endemic and recent cases have only been found among travelers.
In areas of suspected or confirmed dengue, Hawaiʻi DOH personnel (Vector Control Branch) conduct inspections and mosquito-reducing activities. Reducing mosquito populations reduces the chances of dengue being transmitted to other people. In areas without reported dengue cases, eliminating mosquito-breeding sites in and around your home is a good practice. Mosquitoes only need small amounts of standing water to breed. Common breeding sites at home include:
- Buckets
- Water-catching plants (such as bromeliads)
- Small containers
- Planters
- Rain barrels
- Cups of water left outside
Simply pouring out containers of standing water eliminates the potential for mosquito breeding.
For more information, visit the Disease Outbreak Control Division (DOCD) website and Vector Control Branch (VCB) website.