Health department reports dengue virus detected in Hawaii Island wastewater samples

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The state Department of Health reported that a wastewater sample from Hawaii County has tested positive for dengue virus.

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DOH said the sample was collected Aug. 24 at the Hilo wastewater treatment plant, and the department was notified of the result on Aug. 31.

Health officials said a follow-up sample was collected on Aug. 31, and its results are pending.

DOH said it is not currently tracking any active dengue cases in Hawaii County.

The health department said all dengue cases reported in the state to date have been travel-associated. Of the seven dengue cases reported in Hawaii this year have involved travel to Pacific Island countries and territories.

Dengue virus is transmitted through mosquitoes.

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.

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

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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.

The state said it collects municipal wastewater samples each week and sends them to the State Laboratories Division (SLD) for dPCR testing, as well as to the University of Missouri for advanced sequencing to look for bacterial and viral genetic material associated with community infections.

This testing can identify viral genetic material shed by infected individuals, including those who may not yet have symptoms or have not sought medical care. A dengue signal in wastewater does not confirm a clinical case or indicate community transmission. Instead, it serves as an early indicator that can prompt awareness and monitoring for potential cases, officials said.

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For more information about dengue and mosquito control, visit: