The national director of Epidemiology, Francisco Durán, warned this Wednesday about a surge in severe dengue cases in the country, with eight patients in intensive care units: seven in serious condition and one critical.
The official explained on national television that the situation is worsening due to recent rains, the high mosquito infestation, and the accumulation of trash and water in household containers.
Durán specified that eight provinces report dengue transmission, affecting 10 municipalities and 10 healthcare areas; Sancti Spíritus has joined with the municipality of Trinidad.
He emphasized that, unlike other arboviruses, dengue poses a greater clinical risk, so anyone experiencing fever or other symptoms should seek medical attention immediately, and individuals at risk should be admitted for monitoring.
The epidemiologist placed the vector infestation among the highest in recent days, with Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, and Sancti Spíritus being among the provinces with the highest rates.
"High mosquito infestation caused by heavy rains and also the accumulation of trash. A mosquito can breed even in the cap of a bottle,” he warned, emphasizing the need to eliminate breeding sites in yards, rooftops, and around homes.
To contextualize the increase in fever-related consultations, Durán recalled that other arboviruses are circulating:
- Oropouche: currently the most widespread transmission (in 11 provinces, 23 municipalities, and 28 health areas), with a generally milder clinical presentation; nonetheless, it emphasized the importance of early consultation to determine diagnosis and risk.
- Chikungunya: detected this year in Perico, Matanzas; transmission remains localized but active.
- Respiratory viruses (including influenza): this is an endemic pattern, and diarrhea cases do not show an increase compared to previous years, although a "risk group" has been identified.
In terms of preventive measures, Durán explained that the flu vaccine is already being administered to children, and in October, vaccination against HPV for fourth-grade girls (9 years old) will begin for the first time in Cuba, as a measure to prevent cervical cancer.
The MINSAP official recommended eliminating water accumulations and waste that create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
He also urged consulting a doctor immediately in the presence of fever, muscle pain, rash, or other symptoms consistent with dengue.
He also recommended to prioritize admission for at-risk individuals (young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and patients with comorbidities).
With more severe dengue cases and widespread circulation of Oropouche, the country enters a phase that demands strict vector control and early consultation to prevent complications.
At the beginning of this month, a boy identified as Yoel passed away as a result of complications associated with hemorrhagic dengue, a disease that is strongly affecting several provinces in Cuba.
The virus spreads in a context of great fragility of the healthcare system, with limitations in medication, lack of effective control of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, and issues with access to drinking water.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Increase in Dengue Cases in Cuba
What is the current situation of dengue in Cuba?
Dengue has seen a surge in severe cases in Cuba, with eight patients in intensive care, seven in serious condition, and one critical. Authorities have identified transmission in eight provinces, and mosquito infestation is among the highest recorded.
What factors contribute to the increase in dengue cases in Cuba?
The increase in dengue cases is related to recent rains, the accumulation of garbage, and standing water in domestic containers, which favors the proliferation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. The lack of effective control of mosquito breeding sites and the limitations of the healthcare system exacerbate the situation.
What preventive measures are being taken against dengue in Cuba?
The national director of Epidemiology, Francisco Durán, has urged the population to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in yards and rooftops, and to consult a doctor immediately upon experiencing symptoms such as fever or muscle aches. It is recommended that at-risk individuals be admitted for monitoring and treatment. In addition, fumigation and vector control campaigns are underway.
What other diseases are circulating in Cuba besides dengue?
In addition to dengue, the Oropouche virus and chikungunya are circulating in Cuba. The Oropouche virus has a wider transmission, although it generally presents milder clinical symptoms. Chikungunya manifests with fever and joint pain, although its transmission remains localized.
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