Health authorities in the province of Matanzas stated this Thursday that fever cases have started to decrease following the chikungunya outbreak detected on July 16 in the popular council of España Republicana, in the municipality of Perico.
They explain that although reports of fever have slightly decreased, hygienic-epidemiological actions continue intensively to contain the virus and prevent its spread, reported the local newspaper Girón.
The batey of Central España was identified as the point of entry of the virus into the territory.
An enhanced active surveillance system has been established there, supported by personnel from various municipalities in the province, such as Cárdenas, Colón, Jovellanos, Matanzas, and Limonar, the publication notes.
"A house-to-house campaign is being conducted to find individuals with fever or related symptoms. Additionally, actions for fumigation, destruction of breeding sites, and sanitation of the environment have been intensified," explained Andrés Lamas Acevedo, director of the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology.
Vector control measures have been the cornerstone of the response, with a focus on combating Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, the vectors of the disease.
According to the official, there are fumigation teams with guaranteed resources (insecticides, fuel, foggers); personnel mobilized, including health workers, vector control staff, local government support, and a team of rehabilitators who visit homes to assist patients with joint and muscle pain, common aftereffects of the virus.
Additionally, pregnant women from the area have been moved to the maternal home in Perico to prevent potential infections.
"We have not had any severe cases or fatalities. Intersectoral work and the commitment of health workers have been key," emphasized Lamas Acevedo.
He added that the hospital wards in the province remain active and prepared to handle cases related to the outbreak.
Moreover, Lamas Acevedo noted that although the dengue situation remains stable in the province, there is a slight increase in febrile cases in the municipality of Martí, where containment and control measures are already being implemented.
Authorities reiterated their call to the public to maintain cleanliness in their homes, cover water tanks, eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites, and seek healthcare services immediately in the presence of symptoms such as fever, muscle, or joint pain.
Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes; and although it is rarely fatal, it can cause intense joint pain that lasts for weeks or even months.
Frequently asked questions about the chikungunya outbreak in Matanzas and the epidemiological situation in Cuba
What is the current situation of the chikungunya outbreak in Matanzas?
The chikungunya outbreak in Matanzas is beginning to diminish, although hygienic-epidemiological actions remain in place to contain the virus and prevent its spread. Authorities have reported that fever cases have started to decline since the outbreak was detected on July 16 in the popular council of España Republicana, in the municipality of Perico.
What measures are the authorities in Matanzas taking to control the chikungunya outbreak?
The authorities have established an active monitoring system in the batey of Central España, identified as an entry point for the virus. Fumigation, elimination of breeding sites, and sanitation of the surroundings are being carried out to combat the disease vectors, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. In addition, house-to-house visits are being conducted to look for individuals with fever or compatible symptoms.
Are there severe cases or deaths from chikungunya in Matanzas?
So far, no serious cases or fatalities from chikungunya have been reported in Matanzas. Authorities emphasize that intersectoral collaboration and the commitment of health workers have been key to managing the situation.
What are the symptoms of chikungunya and how is it transmitted?
Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Symptoms include high fever with a sudden onset, severe joint pain, and inflammation. Although it is rarely fatal, the virus can cause intense joint pain that lasts for weeks or even months.
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