Dengue fever case count hits 160

KAILUA-KONA — An additional three cases of dengue fever were confirmed on the Big Island Thursday, bringing the total number of cases to 160, state health officials said.

Of the people infected remained, 143 of them are island residents and 17 visitors. Of the cases, 34 have been children. The last onset of illness was Dec. 9.

As of Thursday, the Department of Health has excluded 627 reported cases based on test results and/or not meeting case criteria.

Currently, as many as five of the confirmed cases to date are potentially infectious to mosquitoes, health officials said. All others are no longer infectious.

Dengue fever is a viral illness spread through the bite of mosquitoes. The disease, which does not spread from person to person, occurs mainly in tropical Asia, Africa, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. It is most common during the rainy season in areas infested with infected mosquitoes, according to the state DOH. Mosquitoes breed in areas of standing water (such as planters, old tires and pet water bowls).

Symptoms of dengue fever usually start within six days, but can take up to 15 days to appear. They include sudden onset of fever, severe headache, eye, joint, and muscle pain, and a rash that typically appears on the hands, arms, legs and feet within four days of the onset of a fever. These symptoms usually go away within two weeks without medical treatment.

To deter bites, people should take preventative measures like avoiding mosquito-ridden areas. If that is not possible, people should protect themselves with long-sleeve shirts and pants, and bug repellent containing DEET.

To report a suspect case, call 322-4880 in West Hawaii and 974-6001 in East Hawaii. To report mosquito concerns, call Civil Defense at 935-0031.