Health department reports travel-related dengue case in Oahu resident

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The state Department of Health has identified a travel-related case of dengue virus on Oahu, bringing the total number of cases in the state to six so far this year.

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Prior to this case, there were four cases of dengue reported this year on Oahu and one on Kauai.

This most recent case was identified in a resident of Oahu.

The person was exposed to the virus while traveling in a region where dengue is common.

Health teams have been deployed to inspect and implement mosquito control measures in the affected area.

DOH says that due to specifics of the case, the risk of transmission is low.

Dengue virus is transmitted through mosquitos.

The virus is commonly found in tropical and subtropical areas of Central and South America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and several Pacific and Caribbean Islands.

According to DOH, some countries are reporting higher-than-usual numbers of dengue cases, including Samoa, Vietnam, Colombia, Cambodia, Maldives, Mali, New Caledonia, Timor-Leste, Bolivia and Guyana.

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Officials recommend looking up country-specific travel information at least four to six weeks before going to an impacted area.

Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, and body aches.

Anyone who may have recently traveled to an area where dengue is common and is experiencing symptoms should contact a healthcare provider.

Healthcare providers and individuals who suspect a dengue infection are advised to call the Disease Reporting Line at (808) 586-4586.

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