Schematic depiction of the symptoms of dengue fever

This is a Civil Defense message. This is a dengue fever information update for Wednesday November 4th at 12:30 p.m.

As has been reported in the media of the State Department of Health has confirmed cases of dengue fever originating on Hawaii Island. Dengue fever is a virus that is spread by infected mosquitoes it is not transmitted directly from person to person. Symptoms of dengue fever include severe headaches, rash and pain in the joints muscles and bones. Some of these symptoms can resemble other illnesses.

If you believe you may be suffering from dengue fever please contact your healthcare provider and follow their recommendations. The State Department of Health is working with other state and county agencies to identify common factors in these cases to inspect possible sources of dengue carrying mosquitos and take appropriate control actions to prevent the potential spread of dengue fever.

The State Department of Health recommends residence take steps to remove standing water where mosquitoes can live in breed at their homes and businesses. Water catchment systems should be covered to prevent possible breeding opportunities. People should avoid mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors and consider the use the mosquito repellent when going into an area where you’re likely to get bitten. Extra care should be taken by people for medically fragile to include our seniors and young children.

As a proactive and preventive measure Hookena Beach Park will be closed until further notice. This action is necessary to allow for Health and Parks Department staff to conduct mosquito control and pesticide treatments. For additional information on dengue fever and preventing the spread of the dengue fever please go to the Hawaii State Department of Health website at http://health.hawaii.gov or call the Department of Health at (808) 974-4000 extension 68362.

UPDATED (3:14 p.m. on 11/4/2015)

The Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH) is currently investigating a cluster of locally-acquired cases of dengue fever on the Big Island of Hawaii. As of November 4, 2015, there have been 15 confirmed cases identified.

Dengue is not endemic in Hawaii, however it is intermittently imported from endemic areas by infected travelers. This is the first cluster of locally-acquired dengue fever since the 2011 outbreak on Oahu.