HONOLULU — The state Department of Health has confirmed two cases of rat lungworm disease on Hawaii Island. These are the fourth and fifth individuals from Hawaii Island sickened with angiostrongyliasis in 2018, bringing the statewide total to seven cases confirmed this year.
HONOLULU — The state Department of Health has confirmed two cases of rat lungworm disease on Hawaii Island. These are the fourth and fifth individuals from Hawaii Island sickened with angiostrongyliasis in 2018, bringing the statewide total to seven cases confirmed this year.
The most recent case is a resident toddler from East Hawaii. The child became ill in October and was hospitalized. The first round of laboratory testing was negative for rat lungworm disease. A second round of tests confirmed the toddler’s illness.
Since then, the toddler has been transferred to Oahu for further case management.
DOH disease investigators are conducting a detailed investigation to learn more about the patient and possible sources of infection.
Disease investigators also closed another Hawaii Island case. In August, an adult resident from West Hawaii became ill and was confirmed with a mild case of rat lungworm disease and has since recovered from the illness. After conducting a thorough investigation, the department was unable to identify a definitive source of infection.
“With the rainy season in full swing, we may expect to see more slugs and snails around our homes and gardens,” said DOH Director Dr. Bruce Anderson. “We can reduce the risk of rat lungworm disease by taking precautions to safely eliminate rats, slugs and snails in our communities. Keeping our young children away from these harmful vectors as well as thoroughly washing all produce before consuming it is crucial.”
