The Cuban government confirmed an increase in cases of hepatitis A in the country.
The national director of Epidemiology at the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), Francisco Durán, reported on state television about the emergence of cases of this illness.
Durán explained that this is a digestive transmission disease related to the consumption of water contaminated with feces from infected individuals.
"There is an increase, just as there is an increase in diarrheal diseases as well," he emphasized.
According to the expert, the symptoms include general malaise, jaundice (yellowing) of the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes, and fever in some cases.
"It is a viral disease because it is the hepatitis A virus," he emphasized.
To prevent it, it is important to consume uncontaminated food; therefore, it is necessary to wash vegetables thoroughly and always drink boiled or chlorinated water.
"It is being worked on to ensure the availability of 1% sodium hypochlorite in pharmacies at a price that is not too high," he specified.
In May, there was an increase in cases of hepatitis A in the Reina neighborhood of Cienfuegos, with over 5,000 patients detected, prompting authorities to implement epidemiological surveillance measures.
Liván Rojas Lantigua from the Provincial Health Department reported that most cases were concentrated in four blocks of the neighborhood. Actions were being taken "to increase the perception of the risk of contracting the virus," such as controlling hotspots in the homes to maintain health monitoring.
Last week, Durán warned of the need to take extra precautions with food and water, especially during the year-end festivities, to prevent an increase in cases of diarrhea.
The specialist reported that Cuba is closing 2024 with active dengue transmission in 13 provinces, with a considerable number of hospitalized patients, some of whom are in serious condition. Meanwhile, Oropouche affects 15 provinces, though with less severity due to milder symptoms, and most cases are treated at home.
All of this reflects a critical epidemiological landscape, exacerbated by sanitation issues and structural deficiencies.
"The clinical picture of dengue and Oropouche is very similar, which can lead to misplaced confidence among people, thinking it is Oropouche when, in reality, it could be dengue, which can worsen," he warned.
The epidemiologist pointed out that although no cases of Zika, chikungunya, or yellow fever have been reported in Cuba, the Aedes aegypti mosquito remains the vector responsible for these arboviral diseases. Therefore, it is essential to strengthen sanitation measures and control of breeding sites.
"We are aware of the problems related to waste collection, but everyone must make an effort in their surroundings to minimize risks," Durán added.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Increase of Hepatitis A in Cuba
What has caused the rise in hepatitis A cases in Cuba?
The increase in hepatitis A cases in Cuba is linked to the consumption of water contaminated with feces from infected individuals. This highlights the serious health situation and the lack of access to safe drinking water, which are structural problems in the country and are being exacerbated by the Cuban government's inability to ensure adequate hygiene conditions.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis A?
The symptoms of hepatitis A include general discomfort, jaundice (yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes), and fever. These symptoms indicate a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and can have a serious impact on health if appropriate preventive measures are not taken.
What measures can be taken to prevent hepatitis A in Cuba?
To prevent hepatitis A, it is essential to consume uncontaminated food, which includes thoroughly washing vegetables and always drinking boiled or chlorinated water. However, in Cuba, the lack of resources and adequate conditions in the supply of drinking water complicate the implementation of these preventive measures.
What is the Cuban government doing to control hepatitis A?
The Cuban government has implemented epidemiological surveillance measures in response to the increase in hepatitis A cases. However, a lack of resources, shortages of hygiene products, and inefficiencies in health management limit the effectiveness of these actions, leaving the population exposed to greater risks.
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