The national director of Epidemiology at the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), Francisco Durán García, warned on Thursday about the increase in communicable diseases during the summer months in Cuba, especially those related to water contamination, improper food preservation, and high temperatures.
During his participation in the Midday News of the state channel Canal Caribe, Durán stated that there are currently no alarming reports of dengue or Oropouche virus and that the greatest risk this season corresponds to digestive transmission diseases. He also mentioned the need to maintain vigilance over respiratory diseases and other infections that are common during this time.
"There are already children on vacation; the beach, the heat, and with it an increased risk of digestive diseases such as acute diarrhea, salmonellosis, shigellosis, and hepatitis A," said the official. He added that the condition of the water infrastructure and the difficulties in boiling or chlorinating the water are factors to consider in order to prevent new infections.
Durán insisted on the need to properly wash food, especially raw vegetables, and to ensure the hygiene of drinking water. “We are aware of the difficulties regarding water. We are not unaware,” he stated.
Recent outbreaks and background
The forecast for an increase in cases arises in a context where outbreaks of hepatitis A have been reported in several provinces. On May 25, health authorities in the municipality of Cárdenas, province of Matanzas, confirmed infection clusters in the neighborhoods 13 de Marzo and La Marina, linked to the consumption of contaminated water.
Dr. Rosangel Fernández Ruiz, the health director in Cárdenas, recommended increasing personal and household hygiene measures. In addition, local actions have been implemented, such as door-to-door monitoring in affected areas and enhanced chlorination of public water sources.
In January, MINSAP reported an increase in cases in the province of Sancti Spíritus, particularly in the municipality of La Sierpe, with over 1,000 people diagnosed. In 2024, outbreaks were also reported in areas such as the Reina neighborhood of Cienfuegos, where more than 5,000 cases were linked to the use of water contaminated with sewage.
The Ministry of Public Health had already warned in December 2024 that hepatitis A continued to be a concern, especially in urban areas with high population density and limited sanitation conditions.
Recommended preventive measures
Hepatitis A is a viral disease that affects the liver and is transmitted through contact with infected feces, primarily through water or food. In many cases, it does not present severe symptoms, but it can have a greater impact on individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
The authorities recommend the following measures to reduce the risk of contagion:
- Treat water for consumption with hypochlorite or boil it when possible.
- Wash fruits, vegetables, and kitchen utensils thoroughly.
- Wash your hands frequently with water and soap.
- Do not share plates, glasses, or utensils.
Durán recalled that summer promotes the spread of these diseases and that prevention largely depends on hygiene practices in the home and the community.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Increase of Infectious Diseases in Cuba During the Summer
Why do transmissible diseases increase in Cuba during the summer?
The increase in communicable diseases in Cuba during the summer is primarily due to factors such as water contamination, improper food storage, and high temperatures. These factors promote the proliferation of bacteria and viruses, raising the risk of digestive and respiratory diseases.
What are the most common diseases in Cuba during the summer?
During the summer in Cuba, the most common illnesses are those transmitted through the digestive system, such as acute diarrhea, salmonellosis, shigellosis, and hepatitis A. Caution should also be taken with respiratory illnesses, which may increase due to climatic conditions and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
What measures are recommended to prevent hepatitis A in Cuba?
To prevent hepatitis A in Cuba, it is recommended to treat water for consumption with sodium hypochlorite or to boil it, wash fruits, vegetables, and kitchen utensils thoroughly, and maintain rigorous personal hygiene. Additionally, sharing plates, glasses, and cutlery should be avoided to reduce the risk of transmission.
What actions is the Cuban government taking to control disease outbreaks?
The Cuban government has implemented measures for epidemiological surveillance and increased chlorination of public sources to control disease outbreaks. However, the effectiveness of these actions is limited by a lack of resources and inefficiencies in healthcare management, leaving the population vulnerable to new infections.
Filed under:
