LIHUE — Another imported case of Zika virus was reported on Kauai, the Kauai District Health Office and the County of Kauai said Monday. This is the second travel-related case of Zika on Kauai this year confirmed by the Department
LIHUE — Another imported case of Zika virus was reported on Kauai, the Kauai District Health Office and the County of Kauai said Monday.
This is the second travel-related case of Zika on Kauai this year confirmed by the Department of Health’s State Laboratories Division. The Kauai resident has a history of recent travel to the South Pacific, but is past the point of being infectious to mosquitoes.
“The Department of Health is working with the County of Kauai to take proactive steps to assess affected areas for mosquito activity, educate communities and treat mosquito breeding sites,” said Acting Kauai District Health Officer Toni Torres. “This event is a serious reminder that we all need to take steps to prevent mosquito bites especially when traveling to affected areas worldwide, and eliminate mosquitoes by emptying standing water where they can breed.”
The Hawaii State Department of Health has confirmed a total of 10 imported cases throughout the state this year. Hawaii has no locally acquired Zika cases at this time, and no mosquitoes transmitting the disease within the state.
A Vector Control team from the Kauai District Health Office was sent to visit the individual’s residence to survey the area for mosquitoes and determine if there was a need to treat the area to reduce any mosquito breeding sites. DOH continues to coordinate closely with its county partners to assure a targeted and efficient response.
Zika continues to spread in multiple regions across the world. Imported or travel-related cases are expected to increase this year. Travelers are advised to prevent infection while traveling by using repellent and by staying away from mosquitoes.
Travelers should also prevent mosquito bites when they return from areas with mosquito borne disease outbreaks, as well as monitor their health and see their healthcare provider about illness occurring in the two to three weeks after return from travel.
