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The United States Embassy in Havana issued a new ahealth alert directed at its citizens, following the rise in hepatitis A cases in the Cuban capital, warning that the risk of contagion increases due to deficiencies in the water and sanitation systems.
According to the official statement, the disease is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water, with a higher risk of exposure in areas where water supply issues, ineffective waste collection, and an abundance of flies persist.
U.S. authorities advised travelers to consult their doctor about the hepatitis A vaccine before visiting the island, as well as to take extra hygiene precautions during their stay.
They also suggest reviewing with travel insurance companies the options for medical evacuation in case of illness abroad.
The Embassy also directed citizens to the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where information about symptoms, prevention, and available vaccines is detailed.
This new alert adds to other recent health warnings issued by Washington in relation to outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya, and oropouche in Cuba, highlighting the increasing concern over the deterioration of sanitary conditions on the island.
The Ministry of Public Health of Cuba confirmed this Wednesday that there has been a "slight increase" in the number of cases of hepatitis A.
Hepatitis A is a digestive transmission disease. The expert emphasized that it is excreted in feces, and when those feces contaminate water, they can, in turn, contaminate vegetables that are consumed raw and have not been properly washed.
"Whenever possible, water should be boiled, and chlorine tablets should also be added, which are sometimes sold in pharmacies in our country. You add them and take the water right there, and vegetables should be washed very well with chlorinated water," warned Francisco Durán, national director of Hygiene and Epidemiology.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Health Alert for Hepatitis A in Cuba
Why did the U.S. Embassy issue a health alert for hepatitis A in Cuba?
The United States Embassy in Havana issued a health alert due to the rise in hepatitis A cases in the Cuban capital. It was warned that the risk of contagion is high due to deficiencies in the water and sanitation systems on the island.
How is hepatitis A transmitted?
Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water, as well as through direct contact with an infected person. The risk of exposure is higher in areas with sanitation issues, such as ineffective waste collection and lack of drinking water.
What recommendations have been made to prevent hepatitis A in Cuba?
It is recommended to boil water and use chlorine tablets whenever possible, wash vegetables thoroughly with chlorinated water, and consult a doctor about the hepatitis A vaccine before traveling. It is also important to check with travel insurance providers regarding medical evacuation options in case of illness.
What other diseases concern travelers in Cuba currently?
In addition to hepatitis A, a warning has been issued for outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya, and oropouche virus in Cuba. These diseases, transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes, pose a significant risk to travelers due to the poor hygienic and sanitary conditions on the island.
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