HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has reported a new travel-related case of dengue virus on Oahu, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 13 for 2024. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You This includes one case on Kauai, three on Maui, and nine on Oahu. The individual contracted the virus while traveling to a region where dengue is known to spread. In response, DOH teams have been deployed for inspections and mosquito control in the affected area. Community members are encouraged to help minimize the risk of local transmission by following safety practices. "Dengue virus is spread from infected individuals to mosquitoes and then to people," said Matthew Kurano, administrator of DOH Environmental Health Services. "Just go around your house or places of business; if you see even very small receptacles, bromeliads are very popular in Hawaii, right? And spare tires in some places, especially around businesses. Those are the kinds of places that can breed mosquitoes—tip them out." Honolulu sewer fees could double in 10-years Although Hawai‘i has the types of mosquitoes that can carry dengue, the disease is not endemic to the state, with cases currently limited to travelers. However, heightened dengue activity has been reported in multiple regions worldwide, including Central and South America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and various Pacific Islands. Health officials advise anyone traveling to areas with known dengue risks to take precautions. These include using EPA-registered insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and staying in air-conditioned rooms or using insecticide-treated bed nets. Travelers returning from affected areas should take measures to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks after their return. If symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, or body aches develop within two weeks of returning, individuals should seek medical evaluation. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news For further information, visit the Disease Outbreak Control Division and Vector Control Branch websites.