The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) recently confirmed a travel-related dengue virus case on Oʻahu. The individual traveled to a region where dengue is known to be spread. DOH teams were deployed for inspection and mosquito control in affected areas.

So far in 2024, there have been six confirmed travel-related dengue cases identified in the state (one on Maui, five on Oʻahu). Exposure came from various locations around the world. None were locally acquired. Multiple regions worldwide are currently experiencing higher-than-normal dengue activity.

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.

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 in the state, and cases are currently only seen in 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.

For more information visit Disease Outbreak Control Division (DOCD) website and Vector Control Branch (VCB) website.