Health & Safety Watch
Advertiser Staff
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Here is some information to help you navigate the labyrinth of data and sometimes conflicting reports circulating about everything from dengue fever in Hawai'i to opening your mail in times of bioterrorism threats.
Above all, do not panic. Public health and safety officials urge caution tempered by common sense.
We hope this information addresses many of your concerns. If you have other questions, e-mail us at hawaii@honoluluadvertiser.com or write us at Honolulu Advertiser Q&A, P.O. Box 3110, Honolulu, HI 96802, and we'll do our best to help.
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Q&A
Q: How does Gov. Ben Cayetano stay abreast of fast-breaking war and terrorism developments nationally and Hawai'i-specific security threats in this time of crisis?
A: The governor is in touch regularly with FBI, local police, Civil Defense and CINCPAC officials, a spokeswoman in his office said.
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PUBLIC HEALTH
What is dengue fever?
Dengue fever is an acute mosquito-borne febrile disease caused by a virus. It spreads when a mosquito bites an infected person and passes along the virus when it bites someone else. People cannot infect other people.
Dengue update: 69 confirmed cases had been reported in Hawai'i as of Friday. 55 on Maui, 4 on Kaua'i, 10 on O'ahu.
How do I know if I have dengue fever?
Dengue causes a sudden high fever, severe head and body aches, nausea and vomiting, and rash on the hands and feet. Symptoms may last for 10 days, but complete recovery can take up to four weeks. In rare cases, dengue can cause fainting, shock and internal bleeding. It is rarely fatal.
If you have dengue symptoms, call your doctor and the Department of Health.
What can I do?
Wear closed shoes with socks, long trousers and long-sleeved shirts to avoid bites, repair screens to keep mosquitoes out and eliminate stagnant water in any containers left outside to get rid of mosquito breeding areas.
Bulk item pickup:
- O'ahu:
- Honolulu 523-4685
- 'Aiea/Pearl City/'Ewa 455-1725
- Kailua/Waimanalo 262-8346
- Kane'ohe 247-3553
- La'ie 293-5657
- Hale'iwa/Waialua 637-4795
- Wahiawa/Mililani 621-5241
- Wai'anae 696-3421
- On Kaua'i: 241-6600
- On Hawai'i: 961-8339
- On Maui: 270-7875
More information:
- www.hawaii.gov/doh/dengue
- Hawai'i Department of Health:
- O'ahu: 586-8352
- Big Island: 933-0912
- Maui, Moloka'i, or Lana'i: 984-8200
- Kaua'i: 241-3387
What is anthrax?
Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It most commonly occurs in hoofed mammals. It is not spread person-to-person.
If you have reason to believe you've been exposed to anthrax, get in touch with your doctor and the Health Department. Early antibiotic treatment is essential.
Anthrax update: As of yesterday, 14 cases of anthrax, including three deaths, had been confirmed nationwide. No cases or suspected cases have been reported in Hawai'i.
What can I do?
On all islands, call 911 for emergencies or to report suspicious activity.
More information:
- www.hhs.gov/news/press/2001pres/20011010a.html
- Hawai'i Department of Health:
- O'ahu: 586-8352
- Big Island: 933-0912
- Maui, Moloka'i, or Lana'i: 984-8200
- Kaua'i: 241-3387
Stress
The American Psychological Association has tips on addressing anxiety: helping.apa.org/daily/anthrax.html
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PUBLIC SAFETY
Security remains high across Hawai'i, particularly at airports and government facilities. Some public facilities also have special security measures in effect.
Blaisdell Center, Waikiki Shell: Backpacks, briefcases, handbags or other personal containers larger than a clutch purse are not allowed. All personal bags will be subject to search when entering either location. Coolers 18 inches or longer, as well as umbrellas, are not allowed in the Waikiki Shell.
Aloha Stadium: Handbags and purses have joined the list of banned items at stadium events. Other banned items include backpacks, fireworks, umbrellas, weapons, noise-makers and outside food or beverages.
Military bases: Expect long lines and tight security at the state's military facilities as they remain on a higher state of alert.
What can I do?
- The Honolulu Police Department has set up a special telephone number to take calls from anyone who has information on acts of terrorism: CALLHPD (225-5473). O'ahu and Neighbor Island residents also can call the FBI at 566-4300.
- On all islands, call 911 for emergencies or to report suspicious activity.
- For all other questions about O'ahu city services: 523-CITY
- www.co.honolulu.hi.us
The mail
Though the U.S. postal system is being used to send anthrax spores, the chance of contracting anthrax in that way is considered very slim. The U.S. postmaster general does advise people to wash their hands after opening letters, though.
In general, do not worry about junk mail, bills or cards from friends and relatives.
If you receive something unfamiliar, look carefully to see whether it has stains, feels like it may include powder, has a different postmark address than the return address, or protruding wires or other elements. If you think the package is suspicious, be calm. Put it down. Do not shake it. Do not clean up powders or
fluids. Put it in a plastic bag or envelope, or cover it with a towel or cloth. Wash your hands with soap and water. Call 911. If you're at work also notify your building security or your supervisor. Take note of who else is in the room with you. Shower with soap and water as soon as possible. Do not use bleach or disinfectant on your skin.
More information:
Travel
Security remains high at all U.S. airports. In Hawai'i, vehicles are being searched at Honolulu Airport, curbside pickup is not allowed and air travelers can expect longer waits due to more ID and general security checks.
Only ticketed passengers may go beyond the security checkpoint.
What you should do:
- Arrive at least three hours before international and domestic flights. Interisland passengers should check in at least 90 minutes before departure.
- Reconfirm your flight time with your airline and ask what time they recommend you arrive.
- Limit carry-ons. New rules by the Federal Aviation Administration restrict passengers to one piece in addition to a purse or briefcase.
- Do not place sharp instruments (letter openers, knives, scissors, etc.) in carry-on luggage. They will be confiscated.
More information:
Sources: Centers for Disease Control, FBI, Hawai'i Department of Health, Hawai'i Department of Transportation, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Postal Service, Honolulu Police Department
