HAWAII ISLAND – The Hawaii Department of Health reports no new confirmed cases of dengue fever have been identified since Thursday March 10th, and a new risk map posted today shows a decreased risk of acquiring the mosquito-borne disease in East Hawaii.

There are no longer any areas of high or moderate dengue risk on the Big Island, and Hilo and Puna no longer bear the yellow mark indicating a low risk. There are still low risks spots in Captain Cook and South Kona closer to Ho’okena. There is also a low risk spot in Volcano.

Officials still caution residents and visitors to Fight The Bite, however. “Although the number and frequency of new cases appears to be on the decline,” stated a Wednesday civil defense message, “the outbreak is not expected to be considered over anytime in the near future and we are asking for everyone’s help to continue to fight the bite.”

Meanwhile, Hawaii County Civil Defense reports Waipio Valley lookout will be closed tomorrow, Thursday March 17th, as a preventative action to conduct mosquito treatment or spraying. “We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,” stated civil defense. “Again, this is a preventative action only and there are no new cases associated with the lookout facilities.”