Hawaii Island Mayor Billy Kenoi declared a state of emergency this week regarding reports of dengue fever. Since last October, more than 250 people have tested positive for the mosquito-borne disease. Despite the high number of confirmed cases, Hawaii Tourism Authority and Hawaii State Department of Health have stated that travel plans to the islands should not be impacted. There is only one case that is currently considered infectious.
“Travelers should not be alarmed by the County of Hawaii’s state of emergency declaration for Hawaii Island or allow this decision to alter their travel plans to any of the Hawaiian Islands,” said George Szigeti, president and CEO of Hawaii Tourism Authority. “This declaration is a good strategic move by the County of Hawaii, as it will provide government officials with additional funding and resources to eliminate dengue fever from Hawaii Island.”
According to the Hawaii State Department of Health, all of the islands are still considered safe for visitors. The current outbreak is considered small by global standards and minor in comparison to other tropical tourist destinations.
The majority of dengue fever transmission has come from a rural southwestern region on Hawaii Island. Other islands have not reported any locally acquired cases. Since January the rate of disease spreading is on the decline.
Despite the emergency declaration for Hawaii Island, Governor David Ige has not issued a statewide travel advisory. He will not consider doing so unless dengue fever spreads to other islands. Only residents of Hawaii Island will be allowed to drop off used tires at county landfills for the next 60 days that the proclamation is in effect. Tires that hold rainwater are common breeding grounds for mosquitoes and were previously restricted from disposal.
Hawaii Island has received additional state funding toward its efforts to stem dengue fever infection. The last major outbreak resulted in 122 confirmed cases during a nine month period between 2001 and 2002.
Symptoms related to dengue include fever, sever headaches, pain behind the eyes, joint and/or muscle pain and rashes. If exhibiting symptoms, a healthcare provider should be contacted immediately.
Hawaii State Department of Health also encourages visitors and residents to take precautions against the spread of disease:
–Use mosquito repellent products that contain EPA-approved chemicals, and reapply as needed. Repellent should be sprayed on exposed skin and clothing when mosquito exposure is unavoidable.
–In case of shortages, visitors are encouraged to bring their own mosquito repellent with them.
–Light-colored long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and shoes are recommended to limit exposure to mosquitoes.
–Use air conditioning in rooms instead of leaving windows open, especially if no screens are present.
–If mosquitoes are present inside, use indoor insecticides.
