Lawmakers: Agency not doing enough against dengue fever

HONOLULU (AP) - Some Hawaii lawmakers are concerned that state health officials aren't doing enough to combat a dengue fever outbreak that has grown to 107 confirmed cases.

The state Department of Health reported the latest total on Thursday.

State Sen. Russell Ruderman says he is worried about his pregnant wife getting the mosquito-borne illness. He and other Big Island lawmakers say the health department is downplaying the situation.

Department Director Dr. Ginny Pressler says the level of alarm is higher than necessary, and officials are trying to raise awareness instead of fear.

The department hired a public relations firm to help with an education effort.

There's concern the outbreak could hurt the tourism industry, but officials say they have not seen significant visitor cancelations.