HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is closely monitoring a positive wastewater sample for measles virus.

This marks the first wastewater detection of the virus in the state.

The sample was collected Aug. 11, at a site in West Hawaii County. The DOH was notified of the result on Aug. 26.

No suspected measles cases have been reported as of Aug. 27.

The presence of measles virus in wastewater does not confirm a clinical case or community spread. Instead, it signals DOH to be alert and prepared for possible measles cases.

“The recent detection of measles virus in our wastewater is a reminder that this disease is still a threat,” said Gov. Josh Green.

“Vaccination remains our strongest defense to stop measles before it spreads in Hawaii. Let’s work together t

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