- The annual number of rat lungworm cases occurred in Hawaii since 2007 had been in the single digits statewide, but the state has overall 11 confirmed cases (6 cases in Maui and 5 cases in Big Island) so far this year in 2017.
- It is believed most of the cases are contracted by eating raw vegetables or raw meat containing the parasite Angiostronglus cantonensis, carried by snails and slugs. The reports of new cases stem from a single incident in Keaau on Hawaii island where six state residents drank kava and discovered slugs at the bottom of the large bowl. The six adults were hospitalized and their illnesses reported to the department.
- State epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park said that although rat lungworm disease is not a trend in Hawaii, the recent cluster of cases on Maui and Big Island raises concern. Health officials advise the public to take precautious measure:
．Carefully store, inspect and wash produce, especially leafy greens.
．Always store food in covered containers, wash all produce thoroughly and supervise young children playing outdoors to prevent them from putting snails or slugs into their mouths.
． To control slugs, snails, and rats around properties, and especially around home gardens.
．Avoid eating raw (or undercooked) snails, slugs, freshwater shrimp, land crabs and frogs can become infected by ingesting their feces, which contains the lungworm larvae.
