Cubans have strongly questioned the recent statements by Dr. Francisco Durán García, who claimed that "no deaths have been reported" from arbovirosis in Matanzas and that "there is no collapse in health services" in the country.
On CiberCuba social media, the article featuring statements from the National Director of Epidemiology has sparked numerous reactions, with dozens of comments that, "from a place of respect," contradict the well-known doctor and communicator.
“Doctor Durán, with all due respect… you cannot cover the sun with a finger. Yes, people are dying—children, the elderly… The hospitals are disgusting, there isn’t even enough for a test. May God have mercy on us,” wrote a user.
In the opinion of the majority of commentators, the official report from MINSAP downplayed the severity of the situation in Matanzas despite numerous reports of severe febrile cases, a shortage of medications, an increase in infections, and a health crisis exacerbated by a lack of fumigation and the precarious conditions of hospitals.
“That man stands in front of the town manipulating figures. His job should be to demand that the Government and the Ministry of Public Health address this situation,” expressed another reader, who reported that in Matanzas the provincial pediatric hospital is overwhelmed.
Other voices pointed out the abandonment of entire communities in Matanzas, such as the neighborhood of Versalles or the town of Pedroso, where "people are falling one after another due to the virus" and "not a single fumigation has been seen."
Structural issues were also mentioned, such as food and medicine shortages, nighttime blackouts that exacerbate discomfort from mosquitoes, lack of medical personnel, and a shortage of resources to address the increasing hospital demand.
"They have forgotten the people. There is no food, no medicine, they are not fumigating. Everything is wrong, and diseases are spreading," a user stated, calling for urgent action from the government.
The MINSAP has confirmed the circulation of three viruses in the country: dengue, chikungunya, and oropouche, with Matanzas being one of the most affected provinces. However, authorities insist that the number of severe cases is low and that the epidemiological control mechanisms are functioning properly.
Official figures contrast with citizens' testimonies, which speak of numerous unregistered deaths, sick children without adequate medical care, and collapse in the healthcare infrastructure.
"With all due respect, Dr. Durán, what you are saying is a lie. This is out of control," stated another Cuban, also questioning the claims about the supposed fumigation in affected areas.
Many users have called for Dr. Durán to retire or stop repeating "the same empty speech," arguing that his current role "no longer inspires confidence" and that he "does not represent the real suffering of the Cuban people."
Meanwhile, the health crisis continues to worsen in various municipalities across the country, where residents report overcrowded hospitals, garbage accumulation, lack of transportation for the sick, and shortages of reagents for accurate diagnostics.
There's not even any paracetamol to reduce fever. Doctors send you home with water and rest. What kind of control are they talking about?”, denounced a Cuban mother from Matanzas.
In his appearance on National Television, Dr. Durán reminded that there is no specific treatment for these diseases, but it is necessary to see a doctor if there are warning symptoms.
In all cases, he recommended maintaining good hydration and taking pain relievers, something that many Cubans cannot afford due to the scarcity of medications in the country or their high prices in the informal market.
The dengue continues to be transmitted in 12 provinces and 36 municipalities. Three severe patients and one critical patient are hospitalized. The Oropouche virus is present in 12 provinces and 26 municipalities, showing a trend toward a decrease in cases. Finally, chikungunya has confirmed its spread, but specifically in the municipalities of Matanzas.
Frequently asked questions about the health crisis in Cuba and the statements made by Dr. Francisco Durán
What has Dr. Francisco Durán stated about the health situation in Matanzas?
Doctor Francisco Durán has stated that no deaths from arboviral diseases have been reported in Matanzas and that the health services have not collapsed. However, this statement has been challenged by numerous testimonies from citizens who report unrecorded deaths and a collapse in the healthcare system.
What is the real situation of the arboviral epidemic in Matanzas?
According to citizen testimonies, the situation in Matanzas is critical, with a significant increase in sick individuals and a widespread lack of medical resources. Many report collapsed hospitals, a shortage of medications, and a lack of effective fumigation, which is facilitating the spread of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Oropouche.
How has the Cuban government responded to the health crisis?
The Cuban government has begun to transfer doctors and nurses from other provinces to Matanzas in an attempt to contain the epidemiological situation. This measure is reminiscent of the actions taken during the hospital collapse of the COVID-19 pandemic, although many citizens criticize the lack of preventive measures and sufficient resources for proper management of the crisis.
What diseases are currently circulating in Cuba?
In Cuba, dengue, chikungunya, and the Oropouche virus are primarily circulating, with Matanzas being one of the most affected provinces. Additionally, there are reports of respiratory and diarrheal diseases, exacerbated by poor environmental and sanitary conditions.
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