(BIVN) – Seven new cases of dengue fever are being reported by the Hawaii Department of Health on New Years Day, bringing the total case count to 202.

Currently, as many as 13 of the confirmed cases to date are potentially infectious to mosquitoes. All others are no longer infectious, health officials say.

The day before there were five new cases reported.

Of the confirmed cases, 182 are Hawaii Island residents and 20 are visitors. 164 cases have been adults; 38 have been children. The most recent onset of illness was on December 27, 2015.

RECENT DENGUE MAPS

Dengue Fever Information Update

Dengue Fever is a virus that is transmitted from an infected person to a mosquito, which can then infect another person. Dengue fever cannot be spread directly from person to person. Of the 190 confirmed cases, 8 are recent and could be in the stage of their illness in which they can infect mosquitoes.

Symptoms of dengue include a high fever, intense headache and joint pain, and rash on the arms. If you suspect you may have dengue, contact your health care provider and remain indoors to prevent the possibility of being bitten and infecting mosquitoes.

The Department of Health is spraying and treating areas connected to confirmed cases to reduce mosquito populations. In addition, Civil Defense teams are inspecting areas of high mosquito presence reported by the community. If teams visit your home while you are away, they will leave a note – please follow the instructions on the note to contact the appropriate agency.

While these efforts lower risk by reducing mosquito populations, the most effective method to reduce the spread of dengue is for everyone to avoid and prevent mosquito bites. Fight The Bite by wearing clothing that minimizes exposed skin, using mosquito repellant, and avoiding activities in areas of high mosquito concentration during the early morning and late afternoon periods when mosquito activity is greatest.

For additional information on dengue and preventing the spread, go to health.hawaii.gov or call the Department of Health at 974-6001. Everyone’s help and assistance with this outbreak is much needed and appreciated.