Four cases of travel-related mosquito-borne viruses on Oahu

KAILUA-KONA — State health officials are investigating four cases of travel-related mosquito-borne viruses on Oahu.

The state Department of Health said the cases include an individual who traveled to Latin America, returned ill, and is being tested for dengue and Zika virus, as well as individuals who are being tested for dengue fever and chikungunya and have a history of travel to the Pacific Islands and Latin America.

All of the individuals have since recovered, health officials said.

Initial lab tests for the first individual referenced above conducted by the state Laboratories Division were not conclusive, and further testing will be conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dengue fever, Zika, and chikungunya are all mosquito-borne viruses that are spread when a sick person is bitten by a mosquito, which later bites another person. Evidence suggests that Zika can also be transmitted through unprotected sexual contact with someone who has been infected. Some who carry Zika do not show symptoms, and in others, illness may last from several days to over a week. There is currently no cure for these viruses.

State Health Director Virginia Pressler said the department expects to see more of these travel-related cases as outbreaks continue in other areas of the world. She also noted that the department is working closely with the counties and requested “the public’s help in reducing mosquito breeding areas around homes and workplaces and preventing mosquito bites by using repellent or protective clothing.”

The public is advised that anyone who has traveled outside the country and has mild to severe symptoms such as fever, joint pain, rash, or red/pink eyes within two weeks after returning from travel should see their health care provider.

More info: www.health.hawaii.gov.