State of Hawai'i Infectious Diseases - Nora Gleed

I had the opportunity to contact David Johnston, an epidemiologist from the Disease Outbreak Control Division of the Hawai'i State Department of Health. He was able to describe to me, the top five infectious diseases that the state of Hawai'i are currently experiencing.

1. Influenza. Not surprising, Influenza is the most prevalent disease currently affecting Hawai'i citizens. Over 5% of the general population contracted this disease. This computes to  over 7,000 individuals, the highest it has been in over 10 years. However, currently, Hawaii ranks in the top 10 for taking advantage of the flu shot. This high ranking helps to prevent an even higher rate of disease.

2. Chlamydia. This sexually transmitted disease, is the most common in the United States. Chlamydia is also one of the major sources of infertility in women. Hawaii has a rate of about 442 per 100,000, just under the national rate of 458. Most often Chlamydia is transmitted when unsafe sex is practiced, so efforts to educate the youth have been increased. Other efforts include reducing the spread of the disease to children during labor, through education and preparation.

3. Gonorrhea. Over the past several years, Hawaii has experienced an increase in the rates of Gonorrhea. This increase has been partially attributed to a new form of screening that is more sensitive. While experiencing this increase, Hawaii's rates are still below the national average. The highest population has been seen in women ages 20-22. Often women with Gonorrhea also test positive for Chlamydia.

4. Campylobacteriosis. This is a disease of the gut, caused by bacteria that is the main contributor to food poisoning. Most often this disease is contracted by coming into contact with animal feces, but it can also be contracted by infected water and food. The major sign of this disease in diarrhea. Therefore, those who have diarrhea are urged to stay at home to reduce the spread of the disease.

5. Hepatitis B. Hawaii has been  below the national average rates for Hepatitis B for several years. Hepatitis B is spread through body fluids, especially blood. As an attempt to reduce the spread of the virus, all blood donations are screened for Hepatitis B. School admission also requires the Hepatitis B vaccine. Hawaii also recommends the correct use of condoms during intercourse, choosing tattoo artists wisely, as well as not sharing any person items that may have blood on them.