The Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH) reported an additional six dengue fever cases in the current outbreak on the Big Island today. This includes the addition of two more pediatric dengue cases.
As of Nov. 10, there are 33 locally-acquired cases of dengue fever on Hawaii Island. Broken down, 29 cases have been in adults; four have been pediatric. Of the confirmed cases, 25 are Hawaii residents and 8 are visitors.
Since the beginning of our current investigation on Hawaii island, one imported dengue fever case has been confirmed (on Oahu). This case is not associated with the Hawaii island investigation.
Hawaii health officials say the current investigation has identified South Kona, Hookena, and Honaunau as areas of particular concern as areas of exposure, but the entire island is considered to be at risk. All islands in the state should be vigilant and take measures to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
HDOH is actively conducting an investigation into identified cases, as well as working to identify additional cases and evaluate for on-going transmission of disease. Department staff are also conducting assessments of areas of concern for the presence of mosquitoes and may as a precaution spray areas specifically related to our ongoing investigation.
Just as importantly as the investigating and assessing, DOH and Hawaii County are reaching out to residents and visitors to Fight the Bite! by helping to eliminate mosquitoes and keep from getting bitten.
Robert Herriman is a microbiologist and the Editor-in-Chief of Outbreak News Today and the Executive Editor of The Global Dispatch
Follow @bactiman63
Related:
