The Hawaii Department of Health has identified another travel-related dengue case — this time on Kauai.
The latest case comes about two weeks after the fourth case was reported, bringing the total in the state to five so far this year. The 2026 cases include three on Oahu, one on Maui, and one on Kauai.
Health officials said the affected individual recently returned from international travel to an area with dengue transmission, but did not say where. This case has not been connected to any prior ones in Hawaii.
”Due to the specifics of this case, the risk of transmission is expected to be low.” said DOH in a news release. “However, with recent and anticipated storms, this case serves as a reminder for the public to reduce standing water as much as possible to prevent increases in mosquito populations and reduce the risk of local transmission of vector-borne diseases.”
DOH teams have implemented mosquito control measures in the affected areas, which were not disclosed, either.
Hawaii residents can eliminate mosquito breeding sites around the home by pouring out standing water from rain barrels, buckets, water-catching plants, small containers, and even cups left outdoors.
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Dengue — a viral illness spread through mosquito bites — is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, including the tropical and subtropical areas of Central and South America; Asia; the Middle East; Africa; Puerto Rico; American Samoa, Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau.
While Hawaii is home to Aedes mosquitoes, which can carry dengue, the disease is not endemic in the state.
Residents impacted by recent “Kona low” storm floods should take extra precautions during cleanup efforts to protect their health. Travelers returning from dengue-endemic areas should try to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks.
If symptoms of dengue — such as fever, nausea, vomiting, rash and body aches — develop within two weeks of return from dengue-affected areas, residents should seek medical evaluation.
Anyone who suspects a dengue infection should call the Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586.