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The General Directorate of Health in Matanzas warned of an increase in respiratory infections in the province and urged to strengthen protective measures, especially among children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
The authorities emphasized that the most vulnerable groups face higher risks of complications, making it essential to intensify measures, reported the official newspaper Girón.
According to authorities, while this behavior is "common for this time of year," it requires greater prevention from the population.
The alert comes at a time of acute shortage of aerosol inhalers, which are essential for managing respiratory crises such as asthma.
Public health officials urged the systematic implementation of frequent handwashing, the use of masks in enclosed spaces or crowded areas, and covering one's mouth with the inner elbow when coughing or sneezing.
They also recommended properly ventilating spaces, staying in voluntary isolation upon the appearance of symptoms, and seeking medical guidance immediately.
They recalled that influenza vaccination remains an essential tool to prevent severe cases and urged the population to visit healthcare centers to receive information about this service.
The Provincial Health Directorate reaffirmed that "health is everyone's responsibility" and called on the community to maintain preventive behaviors that allow for breaking the chains of transmission.
The alert coincides with the peak period for the circulation of respiratory viruses in the region, which typically occurs between the end and the beginning of the year, particularly affecting densely populated provinces like Matanzas.
Recently, the Health Directorate of Matanzas attempted to downplay the shortage of aerosol nozzles, claiming that there are other ways to administer medications.
However, doctors and citizens have reported that without these nozzles, the effectiveness of the treatment is compromised, especially during a time of high respiratory risk due to the surge in infections in the region.
The healthcare system in Matanzas faces a collapse due to the lack of essential supplies, insufficient medical staff, and deteriorating hospitals.
Reports from citizens and healthcare professionals indicate a severe shortage of medications and basic medical equipment, which has resulted in poor medical care and long wait times for critical treatments.
This situation is exacerbated in the context of the current health crisis due to arboviruses such as dengue and chikungunya.
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