Taiwan’s health department on Tuesday released a map that informs the public of dengue fever outbreaks.
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“Although dengue is not endemic to Hawaii, we do have the mosquito species capable of transmitting the disease”, said state epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park. Therefore, the state Department of Health officials want to pass on a message to the residents that they should take all the steps needed to prevent misquito bites.
Honaunau, Hookena, and South Kona are the three main areas on the Big Island, where there are maximum chances to have dengue. According to health officials, the outbreak might have started in September.
Dengue fever is an infectious disease carried by mosquitoes and caused by any of four related dengue viruses.
Dengue cannot be spread person-to-person, but the mosquito-borne illness can affect large groups if not closely monitored. This disease used to be called “break-bone fever” because it sometimes causes severe joint and muscle pain that feels like bones are breaking. Persons who have the above symptoms should contact their healthcare provider and avoid further exposure to mosquitoes, which is also the best means of prevention.
Officials said no other islands have reported cases.
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For people who have plans to visit Hawaii, Dr. Park says to bring moquito repellant and use common sense when you’re in areas that are populated with mosquitoes.
