N※N

Hawaii Issues Dengue Fever Advisory Amid Rising Cases

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. ues-dengue-fever-advisory-amid-rising-cases.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 3:05 GMT by KOIN
      Locales: Hawaii, UNITED STATES

Honolulu, Hawaii - February 21st, 2026 - The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) today issued a cautious advisory regarding a slight but noticeable increase in reported dengue fever cases across the state. While the current numbers aren't triggering widespread alarm, officials are concerned by a confluence of factors that could potentially escalate the situation. This increase comes against a backdrop of rising dengue fever incidence globally, and is compounded by local conditions that favor mosquito populations - the primary vector for the disease.

Data released by the DOH indicates a modest uptick in cases compared to the same period last year, though the department declined to release specific numbers, citing privacy concerns and the preliminary nature of the data. What is clear, according to Dr. Alana Kealoha, Chief Epidemiologist at the DOH, is a shift in the risk profile. "We are seeing cases appearing sporadically across several islands, and the individuals affected haven't necessarily travelled to known high-risk dengue zones," she explained in a press conference this morning. "This suggests some degree of local transmission, which is what we're most concerned about."

The primary vector for dengue fever is the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquito, both of which are established in Hawaii. These mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid climates and breed in standing water - conditions readily available in many parts of the islands, especially after recent rainfall. The DOH has been actively monitoring mosquito populations, focusing on areas with higher population densities and known breeding grounds, like abandoned tires, plant pots, and uncovered containers.

Adding to the complexity is the ongoing global spread of dengue fever. Several regions across Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa are currently experiencing significant outbreaks. The increase in international travel, particularly post-pandemic, means a greater risk of infected individuals arriving in Hawaii and subsequently being bitten by local mosquitoes, initiating a new cycle of transmission. The DOH is working closely with airport and seaport authorities to enhance screening measures and provide travellers with information about dengue fever and preventative steps.

"It's not just about people travelling to Hawaii," Dr. Kealoha emphasized. "Hawaiians are also travelling outwards, and could potentially contract the virus abroad and bring it back with them. This is why public awareness and personal responsibility are crucial."

The DOH is launching a multi-faceted public awareness campaign to educate residents and visitors about dengue fever symptoms, which include high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, rash, and potential bleeding. The campaign will utilize social media, public service announcements, and informational materials distributed at visitor centers and healthcare facilities. The messaging will focus on the "Fight the Bite" strategy, promoting measures to prevent mosquito bites, such as:

• Using insect repellent: Applying repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 to exposed skin and clothing.
• Wearing protective clothing: Covering arms and legs with long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Eliminating standing water: Regularly emptying and cleaning containers that can hold water, such as flower pots, bird baths, and gutters.
• Using mosquito netting: Sleeping under mosquito nets, especially in areas with high mosquito populations.

Beyond individual preventative measures, the DOH is also collaborating with local communities on mosquito control initiatives. This includes targeted spraying campaigns in areas with known mosquito infestations and educational programs to promote source reduction - eliminating breeding grounds.

The DOH acknowledges that while the current increase is slight, the potential for a larger outbreak exists. They are urging all residents and visitors to remain vigilant, practice preventative measures, and seek medical attention if they experience dengue fever symptoms. The department will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed. Resources and further information can be found on the DOH website: [ https://health.hawaii.gov/dengue ] (fictional link). Continued research and funding for mosquito control programs will be crucial to effectively manage this ongoing public health challenge.