Hawaii DOH News

Group A Strep outbreak West Hawaii, investigation underway

The Hawaii Department of Health and CDC are investigating elevated rates of invasive Group A Streptococcus (iGAS) infections in West Hawaii. The investigation began after a local physician reported higher-than-expected cases over several months. DOH routinely monitors these infections, and Hawaii has historically had higher rates than the national average. Investigators aim to confirm whether cases are increasing, identify risk factors, evaluate disease reporting, and understand how infections are occurring in the community.

DOH Urges Parents of Seventh-Grade Students to Schedule Checkup Visits

The Hawaii Department of Health issued a public reminder on April 7, 2026, urging parents to schedule well-child visits for students entering seventh grade before the 2026-2027 school year. Hawaii law requires students to submit documentation of a physical exam and required vaccinations (Tdap, MCV, HPV) or have an approved exemption. The notice highlights rising pertussis cases in Hawaii, which increased from 3 cases in 2023 to 252 cases in 2025.

RAW FARM Raw Milk Cheddar Cheese Recall - E. coli O157:H7

The Hawaii Department of Health issued an alert regarding a RAW FARM recall of Raw Milk Cheddar Cheese products due to potential E. coli O157:H7 contamination. Seven products are affected, including shredded and block varieties in various sizes with expiration dates through September 2026. Nine illnesses have been reported nationally linked to these products.

Annette Mente - AMCHP Leadership Award Recipient

The Hawaii Department of Health announced Annette Mente as the 2026 recipient of the AMCHP Excellence in State Maternal and Child Health Leadership Award. The award recognizes her more than 25 years of leadership in strengthening Hawaii's maternal and child health system, including her role as FHSD Title V planner and health equity initiatives.

Kona Low Environmental Monitoring Finds E. coli and Salmonella in Floodwater

The Hawaii Department of Health released preliminary environmental monitoring results from the Kona Low storm recovery. Samples collected from floodwater, mud, and sediment at four sites detected E. coli, Enterococcus, and Salmonella bacteria. Hepatitis A was not detected. Testing for additional pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Campylobacter, Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium tetani, and Leptospira is still pending. The DOH confirms existing precautions remain appropriate.

Colon Cancer Screening Campaign for Adults 45 and Older

The Hawai'i Department of Health launched the 'Get Screened Hawai'i' public awareness campaign in April 2026 to encourage colorectal cancer screening for adults starting at age 45. The campaign runs through June 2026 across TV, radio, digital, and print media, directing residents to GetScreened.hawaii.gov. Approximately 700 Hawai'i adults are diagnosed with and 225 die from colon cancer annually.

Used Oil Transporter Cited for Operating Without a Permit

The Hawai'i Department of Health issued a Notice of Violation and Order (NOVO) against Unitek Solvent Services, Inc. for operating used oil facilities without required permits at four locations across O'ahu, Kaua'i, Maui, and Hawai'i Island. The company was assessed a penalty of $116,250 for nine violations including failure to renew permits, obtain EPA ID numbers, and submit annual used oil reports. Unitek has 20 days to respond to the order.

Health Department Responds to Kona Low Storms, Monitoring, Vector Control

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) is responding to the impacts of recent Kona Low storms. The department is conducting environmental monitoring, including testing of nearshore waters and flood-carried mud for pathogens, and performing real-time air monitoring. Vector control measures are also being implemented, including monitoring mosquito populations and targeted actions.

DOH Reports Travel-Related Dengue Virus Case on Oʻahu

The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) reported a new travel-related dengue virus case on Oʻahu, bringing the state total to four for 2026. While the risk of local transmission is considered low, the DOH is reminding the public to reduce standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.

Kaua'i Health Office Hosts Public Open House for National Public Health Week

The Kaua‘i District Health Office (KDHO) is hosting a public open house on April 10, 2026, to celebrate National Public Health Week. The event will showcase public health services, programs, and career opportunities, encouraging community engagement and awareness.