Related videos:
The health authorities in Cárdenas, a municipality in Matanzas,
A note from the official local newspaper Girón detailed that there are outbreaks of hepatitis A in the 13 de Marzo neighborhood and La Marina, which "have raised alarms in the healthcare system of Cárdenas."
"Until now, no fatalities have been reported, but hepatitis A can become serious in children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions," they warned.
Dr. Rosangel Fernández Ruiz, the general director of Health in the area, confirmed the presence of several cases, although she did not specify how many, and urged the population to intensify sanitary measures to curb the spread of this highly contagious disease.
This disease is transmitted through contaminated water or food or by direct contact with an infected person.
The expert indicated that, in case of symptoms such as fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, immediate isolation should be pursued.
It also suggests not sharing utensils such as plates, cups, or cutlery: these should be for individual use.
To avoid infections, it is recommended to wash your hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom, and to chlorinate drinking water, even if it comes from sources deemed safe.
"Hepatitis A, while not usually fatal, can overwhelm healthcare services if not controlled in time. In Cárdenas, the alert includes door-to-door monitoring in critical areas and strengthening chlorination in public sources," the press added.
The increase in cases of hepatitis A in Cuba is directly related to the consumption of water contaminated with feces. The lack of access to safe drinking water and poor hygiene conditions have exacerbated this situation, reflecting the inefficiency of the Cuban government to ensure a proper sanitary environment for its population.
Cuban health authorities issued a alert due to the increase in cases of this disease in several regions of the country in January. In Cárdenas, that month, 32 active cases and about thirty suspected cases had been confirmed, primarily in the "Fructuoso Rodríguez" neighborhood.
Francisco Durán García, national director of Epidemiology, indicated that the increase in hepatitis A was recorded, particularly in urban areas with high population density.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Hepatitis A Outbreak in Cárdenas, Matanzas
What is Hepatitis A and how is it transmitted?
Hepatitis A is an acute viral illness that affects the liver and is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of water or food contaminated with the feces of infected individuals. It can also spread through direct contact with an infected person. The outbreak in Cárdenas highlights the importance of improving hygiene conditions and access to safe drinking water sources in Cuba.
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A?
The symptoms of Hepatitis A include fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and pale stools. It is important to seek medical attention if these symptoms occur, as the illness can become complicated, especially in children and older adults.
What measures can be taken to prevent the transmission of Hepatitis A?
To prevent the spread of Hepatitis A, it is essential to maintain good personal hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. It is also recommended to boil or chlorinate drinking water, thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before consumption, and avoid sharing kitchen utensils.
What actions are the Cuban authorities taking in response to the Hepatitis A outbreak?
Health authorities in Cárdenas have implemented door-to-door monitoring in critical areas and reinforced chlorination in public water sources. The population has been urged to take extra sanitary measures and an alert has been issued to raise awareness of the risk and control the spread of the virus. However, the lack of resources and the ineffectiveness of the Cuban government complicate the effective management of this health crisis.
Filed under: