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- calendar_today November 6, 2026
Legionnaires Disease Detected at Nihi Kai Villas
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is investigating cases of Legionnaires disease associated with the Nihi Kai Villas, a property located in Poipu, Kauai. Tests conducted by the DOH revealed the presence of Legionella bacteria in the water systems at the property, prompting public health concerns.
Background on the Investigation
The investigation was initiated after two visitors who stayed at the Nihi Kai Villas were diagnosed with Legionnaires disease. The DOH has since confirmed that anyone who stayed at this location could have been at risk for exposure to legionella bacteria. The department is examining potential cases dating back as far as January 2025, and encourages individuals who developed pneumonia-like symptoms after staying at the property to come forward.
Understanding Legionnaires Disease and Transmission
According to Dr. Christine Akamine, a professor of medicine and infectious disease physician at the John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM), Legionella is a bacterium that often thrives in built water systems, cooling towers, hot tubs, and building plumbing. She explained, "People can get sick by breathing in the tiny droplets of water that contain the bacteria." Showers are cited as a common medium for transmission.
Expert and Community Reactions
Travel blogger Jeff Tucker, a former owner and resident at Nihi Kai Villas, expressed concern over the illnesses, especially considering the property's popularity among older guests. "It's concerning, especially the way it's transmitted for all the people, and a lot of older people stay there," Tucker remarked.
Dr. Sarah Kemble, the state epidemiologist at the Hawaii DOH, emphasized the long time frame of the department's review, noting, "We’ve been working with this condominium association to investigate, but we are looking over a long period of time because the illnesses that have been reported have been back in 2025 and early in 2026, so there’s a long time frame."
Public Health Advisory and Recommendations
The DOH is actively informing past and present guests of Nihi Kai Villas about the risk of potential exposure. Officials clarified that the risk to the general public is low, as Legionnaires disease does not spread through person-to-person contact. However, individuals who stayed at Nihi Kai Villas should monitor for disease symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Dr. Kemble advised, "If you’re having chest pain or difficulty breathing, you should seek care right away."
Current Status of Nihi Kai Villas and Next Steps
As of now, the Department of Health has not mandated closure of the Nihi Kai Villas. Efforts are ongoing to determine the extent and source of contamination, and KHON has reached out to the property management for comment. The DOH continues to monitor the situation closely as part of its broader disease investigation and public warning initiatives.
Related coverage
Source: khon2.com.
