Hawaii reports 12th case of travel-related dengue this year

The Hawaii Department of Health has confirmed another case of travel-related dengue on Oahu, bringing the total in the state to 12 so far this year.

The latest case comes about a week after the 11th reported case of dengue, which was also on Oahu. A 10th case was reported on Aug. 1.

“The affected individual in this current case was exposed to the virus while traveling in a region where dengue is common,” DOH said, “and is not connected to prior cases.”

DOH said teams have gone to the affected area for inspections and to implement mosquito control measures.

Dengue is a viral illness spread through mosquito bites. While Hawaii is home to Aedes mosquitoes, which can carry dengue, the disease is not endemic in the state.

Dengue outbreaks are reported frequently in the Caribbean, Central America, South America, Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands declared dengue outbreaks in 2024 that have continued into 2025. American Samoa, meanwhile, declared a public health emergency due to a dengue outbreak in early July.

The public is encouraged to review country-specific guidance on dengue risk and prevention measures at least four to six weeks before traveling. Upon returning from dengue-endemic areas, residents should try to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks.

If dengue symptoms — such as fever, nausea, vomiting, rash and body aches — develop within two weeks of return from dengue-affected areas, residents should see their health care provider.

To date, there have been 11 travel-related cases confirmed on Oahu, and one on Maui.