Dengue Fever

West Hawaii Today reported that more than 10 cases of Dengue Fever have been
recently confirmed on the Big Island with some cases in the Honaunau-Hookena area.
Dengue Fever is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the Dengue Virus.
Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin
rash that is similar to measles. In a small proportion of cases, the disease develops into
the life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever, resulting in bleeding, low levels of blood
platelets and blood plasma leakage, or into dengue shock syndrome, where
dangerously low blood pressure occurs.
Everyone is at risk of contracting Dengue Fever. Dengue is an immediate threat in our
community. The Disease may be present where ever there are mosquitos.Encourage
children to be aware of mosquitos and to stay away from areas that have them.
The Department of Health is recommending everyone wear long sleeve shirts, pants
and mosquito repellent to prevent mosquitos from biting. They are also recommending
that people should wear a insect repellent product with 15-25% deet for protection.
Immediately drain all standing water. Mosquitos breed in standing water. A mosquitos
life cycle depends on the species of mosquito and temperature. To stop the mosquitos
life cycle drain standing water every couple of days. Plants that hold water such as
bananas, ti leaves, and bromeliads are typical breeding areas that should be
addressed.
Honaunau School is temporarily suspending outside garden activities until further
notice. Students can apply mosquito repellent before school. Students may bring
mosquito repellent to school, but must apply it themselves and must not share with
other students due to possibility of allergic reactions. We recommend that it be applied
by the student while in the Health Room only. Please write students name on container
and send in a sealed plastic bag.
The City and County are working together to come up with a protocol for schools. Once
we receive the protocol it will be sent home. Please take appropriate precautions until
that time.
For more information contact the Department of Health: 322-1500 (Big Island)
808-586-8362 Honolulu
For more information visit these websites:
http://health.hawaii.gov/docd/dib/disease/dengue/, www.cdc.gov (search Dengue Fever)