Confirmed mumps cases grows to 27 for the year ADVERTISING Confirmed mumps cases grows to 27 for the year HONOLULU (AP) — State health officials announced four new mumps infections are being treated, bringing this year’s total to 27 confirmed
Confirmed mumps cases grows to 27 for the year
HONOLULU (AP) — State health officials announced four new mumps infections are being treated, bringing this year’s total to 27 confirmed cases as of Thursday.
An increase in mumps infections is being seen nationwide and internationally, officials said.
The new Hawaii cases were reported on Oahu. Previous cases were confirmed in Kaimuki, Waipahu, Kalihi and Waianae, according to news reports.
Health officials say this is the highest number since 2001, when there were 42 reported cases.
The spread of mumps can be prevented by vaccinations, officials said. Those suspected of having mumps or have been diagnosed should avoid exposure to others for nine days after swelling of the salivary glands, one of the symptoms.
There is a small number of the population whose immune systems do not respond to the vaccine, said state epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park.
Health officials said at least 16 cases involved patients younger than 18 years old, and at least eight schools notified parents about students getting mumps.
Condos marketed in China criticized by city councilor
HONOLULU (AP) — A plan to build luxury condominiums was criticized by a Honolulu city councilor who questions whether the complex will help ease the city’s housing shortage.
Councilman Ikaika Anderson has concerns about the proposed 26-floor building.
Up to 60 percent of the units are being marketed in China, Anderson said.
“Where is the benefit to the Hawaii working family?” he asked. “Where is the benefit to the Hawaii resident who is looking for housing? I don’t see it with this property.”
Developer Jay Fang applied for a zoning designation that would allow him to build 164 condos on the property with prices ranging from $500,000 to $1.5 million. Normal zoning would allow 115 units.
Construction would be done by non-union workers, Fang said last week.
“The reason why is their work rate is 200 percent — double — the market rates,” he said. “Some people suggest directly or indirectly to work with the union, but we have been suspicious of the unions of Hawaii.”
Anderson said that raises questions about whether the workers will be brought in from outside the state to build the project.
“This project has to benefit the people of Honolulu and the people of Hawaii and unless it does, the City Council should not consider it,” Anderson said.
