The State Department of Health on Tuesday launched “Fight the Bite,” a public education campaign that seeks to end the spread of dengue fever in Hawaii. The campaign aims to inform the public about dengue fever and encourage community participation
The State Department of Health on Tuesday launched “Fight the Bite,” a public education campaign that seeks to end the spread of dengue fever in Hawaii.
The campaign aims to inform the public about dengue fever and encourage community participation in preventing the illness from spreading.
DOH has confirmed 27 cases of locally transmitted dengue fever on Hawaii Island. All of the patients have recovered or are recovering.
“The health and safety of our community and visitors is paramount, and the Department of Health is working collaboratively with all of our partners — including fellow state agencies, the counties, healthcare providers, business leaders, nonprofit service providers and more — to address this important situation and end the spread of dengue fever in Hawaii as quickly as possible,” said Virginia Pressler, director of the DOH. “In order to keep Hawaii safe and dengue-free, we are asking the community for their help in following the easy tips and suggestions shared through our campaign and joining us as together we fight the bite!”
The “Fight the Bite” campaign will roll out this week through a variety of interactive marketing strategies, including the DOH website, earned media, advertising in local print publications and radio outlets, marketing collateral, engagement through multiple digital platforms such as Facebook and Twitter and outreach at the local level.
Taking part in the “Fight the Bite” campaign is easy. The DOH recommends applying mosquito repellent containing 20 to 30 percent DEET, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, using indoor insecticides and reducing the amount of mosquitoes on your property by clearing areas with standing water.
Info: “Fight the Bite,” visit health.hawaii.gov.
