The number of dengue cases in Hawaii this year rose to 13 this week with the confirmation of another travel-related case on Oahu.
The individual in the latest case was exposed to the mosquito-borne virus while traveling to a region where dengue is common and is not connected to any prior case.
In response, the state Department of Health has deployed personnel to conduct inspections and implement mosquito-control measures in exposed areas.
While Hawaii is home to mosquitoes that can carry dengue, the disease is not endemic in the state and cases are currently limited to travelers. Twelve of this year’s cases have been on Oahu; the other on Maui.
Dengue is a year-round risk in the tropical and subtropical areas of Central and South America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and several Pacific Islands, including U.S. territories like American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of Palau. Many popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico, are also affected.
Increased dengue cases have been reported in Fiji, French Polynesia, Samoa, Tonga, the Philippines, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico.
Dengue outbreaks declared in 2024 continue into 2025 in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with Puerto Rico extending its outbreak declaration through December 2025. American Samoa declared a dengue outbreak on July 7, 2025. Local transmission was reported in California, Florida and Texas in 2024, with Florida continuing to report cases in 2025.
Travelers are advised to review up-to-date, country-specific travel information at least four to six weeks before traveling.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention further advise travelers to take standard precautions when visiting areas where dengue is present. This includes using an Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants outdoors, and sleeping in air-conditioned rooms, rooms with window screens or beneath insecticide-treated bed nets.
The CDC advises travelers returning from dengue-endemic areas to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks. If dengue symptoms develop within two weeks of return, travelers should seek medical evaluation.
Symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and include fever, nausea, vomiting, rash and body aches. Symptoms typically last two to seven days. While severe illness can occur, most people recover within a week. Individuals who have recently traveled and are experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider. Healthcare providers and individuals who suspect a dengue infection are advised to call the Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586.
Reducing mosquito populations lowers the risk of dengue transmission to others. Even in areas without reported dengue cases, eliminating mosquito breeding sites around the home is a helpful preventive measure.
Mosquitoes need only small amounts of standing water to breed. Common breeding sites include buckets, water-catching plants (such as bromeliads), small containers, planters, rain barrels and cups left outside. Pouring out containers of standing water can significantly reduce the potential for mosquito breeding, according to the DOH.
Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at [email protected].
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