The State Department of Health is advising that we implement preventive measures, including: eliminating of standing of water sources (improving water drainage, filling in, emptying containers, reducing ponding), clearing of mosquito breeding areas and practicing precautionary measures for occupational exposure.

For further information and a downloadable pamphlet regarding dengue fever can be found at the Hawaii Department of Health - Dengue Fever Information Home Page:

http://www.hawaii.gov/health/family-child-health/contagious-disease/dengue/index.html

The following are recommendations from the CDC.

• Control mosquitoes. Eliminate standing pools, pockets of water within 100-150 yards of homes, offices or other facilities. Alternatives control include, treating with biological control products sold under different names or increasing flow through such areas.

• Repair or install screening of windows and doors, and

• Use an aerosol insecticide (labeled for flying insect) in the facility if mosquitoes are present.

FIELD WORK

Field workers (field researcher, landscaping crew, farmers) and those around them are at increased risk of both getting dengue and of spreading it to new places, so as a group, they must be diligent.

When engaging in field work or outside activity in mosquito infested areas.

• Cover up. Use long sleeves and long trousers, make sure the material is thick enough so that mosquitoes can't bite through. Think about using those net-hats (even if they are hot and humid), especially if you have to sit still for long periods.

• Use an insect repellent applied to skin and to thin clothing, near skin areas. Use insect repellent as prescribed. You might also spray a permethrin (artificial pyrethrum) product (sold as Duranone or Permanone) on your clothes, and let them dry before using. DO NOT spray directly on skin. This will kill mosquitoes settling on your clothes or sprayed surfaces.

• Since the mosquito is primarily a day biter, there is no reason to avoid night work when needed.

ILLNESS

Know the symptoms of dengue fever. If you run a sudden high fever with "severe headaches, joint or muscle pain, nausea/vomiting", see a doctor. A rash may occur after 3-4 days. The disease lasts an average of 10 days but recovery can take up to months. Dengue can be confused with flu and leptospirosis. Field work should not be undertaken if you have a fever, as people with mild cases could spread the disease. In such cases, see a doctor and remain in an air-conditioned or screened area until the doctor confirms it is not dengue.