The national director of Epidemiology at the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), Dr. Francisco Durán, provided an update this Wednesday on the epidemiological situation in Cuba, which he described as "relatively stable," despite the persistence of active outbreaks of arboviral diseases such as dengue, Oropouche virus, and chikungunya.
Durante su comparecencia televisiva, el epidemiólogo destacó que el Dengue maintains active transmission in seven provinces y ocho municipios, con la reciente incorporación del municipio de Martí, en la provincia de Matanzas.
Additionally, Oropouche cases are reported in 11 provinces, 23 municipalities, and 28 health areas, although there have been no serious complications so far.
"The clinical picture of Oropouche is not usually severe, but we must not let our guard down," warned Durán, who noted that this virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and midges, including Culex quinquefasciatus, a vector that is difficult to control and proliferates in any type of stagnant water.
Regarding chikungunya, transmission continues in two popular councils of the municipality of Perico, in Matanzas, although, according to MINSAP, no severe cases or significant complications have been reported. The most common symptoms are intense joint pains.
Durán also reported that there are currently patients admitted due to dengue risk, including one serious case, but not critical, from the province of Santiago de Cuba.
Stability in respiratory and diarrheal diseases
The doctor pointed out that, despite the hot and rainy weather during this time of year, no significant increase has been observed in cases of respiratory illnesses or acute diarrheal conditions, both of which are considered endemic in the country.
Among the respiratory viruses detected in circulation are influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, without any concerning resurgence reported.
Despite the overall stability, the specialist urged not to relax health prevention measures, especially concerning the consumption of safe water, food hygiene, and the use of masks in crowded spaces.
He also reiterated the importance of COVID-19 vaccination, especially booster shots for individuals over 65 years old and at-risk groups such as diabetics, hypertensive individuals, those with obesity, and healthcare workers.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Epidemiological Situation in Cuba
What are the provinces of Cuba with active dengue transmission?
Dengue transmission remains active in seven provinces and eight municipalities, with the recent addition of the municipality of Martí in Matanzas. Authorities have identified that the infestation of the vector mosquito is particularly high in Pinar del Río and Santiago de Cuba.
What preventive measures are being recommended in light of the increase in cases of dengue and other arboviral diseases in Cuba?
Health authorities are urging to not relax health prevention measures, such as wearing masks in crowded spaces, consuming safe water, and maintaining food hygiene. Additionally, the importance of eliminating mosquito breeding sites and seeking medical attention for any fever symptoms is emphasized.
What is the current situation of the Oropouche virus in Cuba?
The Oropouche virus is present in 11 provinces, 23 municipalities, and 28 health areas. Although no serious complications have been reported, it is advisable not to let one's guard down, as the virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and biting midges, including Culex quinquefasciatus, a difficult-to-control vector.
What is known about the circulation of chikungunya in Cuba?
Chikungunya remains active in two popular councils of the municipality of Perico, in Matanzas. While no severe cases have been reported, the most common symptoms include intense joint pain. Local authorities have activated contingency plans to control its spread.
What other diseases are present in Cuba during this season?
In addition to arboviruses, respiratory viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus are also circulating, although no concerning increase has been recorded. There has also been a warning about the seasonal rise in acute diarrheal diseases due to the heat and poor food storage.
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