The year 2024 ends for Cuba amidst an epidemiological landscape marked by the same arboviral diseases (mosquito-borne illnesses) that affected the country throughout the year: dengue and Oropouche, as confirmed by Dr. Francisco Durán García, National Director of Epidemiology at the Ministry of Public Health, during an appearance on Cuban television.
Durán noted that dengue transmission continues in 13 provinces, with a significant number of patients hospitalized and six cases reported as severe, located in two provinces.
For its part, Oropouche affects 15 provinces, although with less severity due to more subtle symptoms, with most cases being treated at home, the specialist noted on the Noon News.
"The clinical picture of dengue and Oropouche is very similar, which can create undue confidence in people, thinking it is Oropouche when it could actually be dengue, which can worsen," warned the epidemiologist, urging the public to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis.
Although no cases of Zika, chikungunya, or yellow fever have been reported in Cuba, the Aedes aegypti mosquito remains the vector responsible for these arboviruses, highlighting the importance of reinforcing sanitation measures and controlling breeding sites.
"We are aware of the issues that exist with garbage collection, but everyone must make an effort in their surroundings to minimize risks," Durán added.
Additionally, he emphasized the need to exercise extreme caution with food and water, especially during the year-end festivities, to prevent an increase in cases of diarrhea. Respiratory illnesses, although present, are not at their peak seasonal levels.
Durán reported that, although respiratory illnesses remain active, they are not experiencing their worst seasonal period.
She also mentioned news about a fever outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, whose cause has not yet been identified, and emphasized that, although the World Health Organization has not officially recognized this disease or its cause, the outbreak is real and has a high fatality rate, particularly among children.
However, he assured that Cuba does not face complexities related to this issue and maintains vigilance at its borders to detect any cases of fever.
The end of 2024 reflects an overloaded healthcare system that faces ongoing challenges in controlling preventable diseases, while the country's structural conditions, such as inadequate waste collection and lack of sanitation, perpetuate a vicious cycle that hinders epidemiological progress.
In November, health authorities in Cuba reported a "slight decrease" in cases of dengue and oropouche, although both diseases continued to significantly affect the population, particularly in the eastern regions of the country.
In October of last year, the Ministry of Public Health reported over 17,000 suspected cases of dengue for the year to date, many of which required hospitalization in intensive care units.
In September, 12,000 suspected cases of oropouche were identified, a disease that was first detected in Cuba in May and is now spreading throughout the country, partly due to inadequate vector control and health measures on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dengue and Oropouche in Cuba
What is the current situation of dengue and Oropouche in Cuba?
Despite a "slight decrease" in cases, dengue and Oropouche continue to be a significant public health issue in Cuba, primarily affecting the eastern regions of the country. Dengue remains present in 14 provinces, while Oropouche is found in all 15 provinces of Cuba.
What measures are being taken to control dengue and Oropouche in Cuba?
Authorities have urged the need to maintain environmental sanitation and eliminate mosquito breeding sites, although the country faces structural issues, such as a lack of resources for fumigation campaigns and leaks in the water system, which hinder the control of these diseases.
What are the symptoms of dengue and Oropouche?
Both diseases exhibit similar symptoms, including fever, muscle and joint pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Dengue is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, while Oropouche is transmitted by mosquitoes from the Culex genus and by the gnat.
What challenges does Cuba face in combating dengue and Oropouche?
Cuba is facing a serious health crisis characterized by a lack of resources for vector control, such as fumigation. The situation is worsened by structural issues like poor waste collection and sanitation, which contribute to the proliferation of disease-carrying mosquitoes.
How can the Cuban population contribute to the prevention of dengue and Oropouche?
The community can contribute by maintaining a clean environment, eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, and using mosquito nets and repellents. It is essential to seek medical attention for any symptoms to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Filed under:
