251 cases of dengue fever confirmed on Hawaii Island; two patients still potentially infectious
TUESDAY, Feb. 9, 2016 (HealthDay News) -- A spreading dengue fever outbreak led Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi to declare a state of emergency on Monday. He said the move was needed to reduce mosquito populations and protect people from mosquito bites, CBS News reported.
As of Monday, 251 cases of dengue fever had been confirmed on Hawaii Island, and two of the patients are still potentially infectious, according to the state health department.
Gov. David Ige is expected to declare an emergency for the entire state as it combats dengue fever, CBS News reported.
The dengue outbreak comes as fears grow about the Zika virus. No cases have been reported in Hawaii, but health officials are concerned the virus could show up in the islands. The same species of mosquito transmits both dengue fever and the Zika virus to people.
Health Highlights: Feb. 9, 2016