Fighting rat lungworm disease an all-hands effort

Better late than nothing. That sums up the state’s ramp-up of efforts against rat lungworm disease, which has snared headlines this year due to reported infections of 15 people, the highest number of annual reported cases in Hawaii over the past decade.

The disease is caused by parasites passed from the feces of infected rodents to slugs, snails and other critters. Ugh. People can become infected when eating raw vegetables or other foods carrying the infected pests. So the state has a new public awareness campaign urging vigilance in washing produce; it also will improve prevention coordination and bolster vector-control efforts. Folks need to do their part. Wash raw vegetables thoroughly before consuming — and work to eliminate rats, snails and slugs from yards and farms.

Hotels for regular folks going up in Kapolei

Kapolei is becoming the “second city” long promised, no longer a mere bedroom community. And yet … here come a lot more bedrooms.

In addition to Hampton Inn & Suites at Ka Makana Alii shopping center, there are now plans for a 183-room Residence Inn by Marriott and an 180-room Embassy Suites by Hilton. It certainly seems that the visitor industry perceives a demand for these limited-service hotels outside the usual resort districts. It will be interesting to study who the guests will be. More budget-minded tourists? Or neighbor islanders not wanting to impose on Oahu relatives?