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Hawai'i Reports Fourth Travel-Related Dengue Case, Raises Concerns

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, March 28th 2026 at 2:00 GMT by KITV
      Locale: UNITED STATES

HONOLULU, HI - March 28, 2026 - The Hawai'i Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a fourth travel-related case of dengue fever this year, raising concerns about the potential for increased transmission and highlighting the ongoing risk posed by mosquito-borne illnesses in the state. The latest case involves a visitor to O'ahu who contracted the virus while traveling in the Philippines.

While currently limited to travel-related instances, the steady uptick in confirmed dengue cases is prompting health officials to reinforce preventative measures for both residents and the significant number of tourists who visit Hawaii annually. This case follows three previously reported instances in 2026, all linked to travel to regions where dengue fever is endemic. The DOH emphasizes that while local mosquito-borne transmission hasn't been established, the risk is present, and vigilance is crucial.

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes species mosquitoes - specifically, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes are also capable of transmitting other viruses, including Zika and chikungunya, adding another layer of public health concern. The Philippines, where the recent case originated, has experienced fluctuating dengue fever outbreaks in recent years, and remains a high-risk destination.

Understanding the Symptoms and Severity

Symptoms of dengue fever typically manifest within 4 to 10 days after an infected mosquito bite. These symptoms can range in severity, but often include a high fever, severe headache (often behind the eyes), muscle and joint pain (giving dengue the nickname "breakbone fever"), nausea, vomiting, and a characteristic skin rash. While most cases are mild and self-limiting, dengue can progress to a more severe form, known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. These severe complications can be life-threatening, characterized by bleeding, organ impairment, and potentially, death.

"We want to remind everyone that dengue fever is still a risk in Hawai'i," stated Dr. Alvin Yim, Deputy State Epidemiologist. "We urge everyone to take precautions against mosquito bites when traveling and spending time outdoors." Dr. Yim also noted that early diagnosis and supportive care are vital for managing dengue fever cases and preventing complications.

Preventative Measures: Protecting Yourself and the Community The DOH is actively promoting a multi-pronged approach to mosquito control and personal protection. This includes:

• Mosquito Repellent: Using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus is highly recommended, especially during peak mosquito activity (dawn and dusk). Follow label instructions carefully.
• Protective Clothing: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors minimizes exposed skin, reducing the risk of bites.
• Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Residents and visitors are encouraged to regularly inspect their properties and eliminate any sources of standing water, such as flower pots, tires, buckets, and gutters. Emptying and scrubbing birdbaths and pet water bowls weekly is also crucial.
• Window and Door Screens: Ensuring that windows and doors have intact screens can prevent mosquitoes from entering homes and buildings.
• Reporting Breeding Sites: The DOH encourages the public to report any potential mosquito breeding sites to local authorities.

Beyond Individual Protection: A Broader Response

The DOH is also collaborating with other agencies to enhance mosquito surveillance and control programs across the state. This includes regular mosquito trapping and testing to monitor for the presence of dengue and other viruses. Public awareness campaigns are ongoing to educate residents and visitors about the risks of mosquito-borne illnesses and how to protect themselves.

Experts suggest that the increasing global travel and climate change are contributing to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. Warmer temperatures can expand the geographic range of mosquitoes and accelerate the viral replication rate within them. Hawaii's tropical climate makes it particularly vulnerable, necessitating a proactive and sustained public health response. The potential for establishing local dengue transmission remains a significant concern, and continued monitoring and preventative efforts are paramount to protecting the health of Hawaii's population.