County to close four Kona parks Friday

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The Department of Parks and Recreation will close four Kona parks at 7 a.m. on Friday to spray for mosquitoes that have the potential to spread dengue fever. Kailua Playground (“The Ghetto”); Kipapa Park (mauka of Alii Drive, near Laaloa Beach Park); Harold H. Higashihara Park; and Arthur C. Greenwell Park, including Sgt. Rodney J. Yano Memorial Hall.

The Department of Parks and Recreation will close four Kona parks at 7 a.m. on Friday to spray for mosquitoes that have the potential to spread dengue fever. Kailua Playground (“The Ghetto”); Kipapa Park (mauka of Alii Drive, near Laaloa Beach Park); Harold H. Higashihara Park; and Arthur C. Greenwell Park, including Sgt. Rodney J. Yano Memorial Hall.

On Thursday, the state Department of Health reported no new cases of dengue fever on the island. The confirmed case count stands at 241. Click here for more information.

While there is no indication that any of these parks are sources of possible infection, this measure is being employed as a proactive and preventative strategy for reducing mosquito concentrations and thereby lowering the risk of potential exposure, according to the department.

The closures are weather permitting.

Unauthorized persons will not be allowed to enter the affected parks until the treatment work is completed and the parks are cleared for public use. Signs will be posted at each park informing the public of the closures, spraying activity, and when the parks are reopened.

Info: 961-8311, jarmstrong@hawaiicounty.gov.