The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has identified the first travel-related dengue virus case in the state this year, occurring on Maui.
The affected individual was exposed to the virus while traveling in a region where dengue is common.
DOH teams have been deployed to conduct inspections and implement mosquito control measures in the affected area. The public is encouraged to follow best practices to help prevent local transmission, as outlined below.
Dengue virus is transmitted from an infected person to a mosquito; then to another person. While Hawai‘i is home to the mosquitoes that can carry dengue, the disease is not endemic (established) in the state and cases are currently limited to travelers.
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 while severe illness can occur, most people recover within a week. Individuals who have recently traveled and are experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.
For more information, visit the Disease Outbreak Control Division (DOCD) and Vector Control Branch (VCB) websites.