In the province of Pinar del Río, five municipalities have been identified as high-risk zones due to a surge in suspected dengue cases, as reported by local health authorities. According to the government-aligned outlet Guerrillero, San Luis has been officially declared an active transmission zone for the virus. Although the provincial capital doesn't fall under the same classification, it still reports a significant number of suspected cases in its four health areas, with the “Hermanos Cruz” polyclinic experiencing the highest incidence throughout the province.
The municipalities of Guane, Sandino, Los Palacios, Pinar del Río, and San Luis are among the most severely impacted by arboviruses, as stated by Dr. Andrés Villar Bahamonde, director of the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology. Other regions have isolated cases deemed low or medium risk.
The situation is exacerbated by the rise of other respiratory illnesses due to the circulation of various viruses. "Currently, several viruses like influenza, parainfluenza, and respiratory syncytial virus are circulating in the province, causing flu symptoms that can last for days, necessitating medical attention," Villar Bahamonde explained.
In response, health authorities have ramped up efforts to control arboviruses. Measures include fever blockades within the first 24 to 48 hours, adulticide fumigations in transmission zones, and treatment of clean water containers, especially low tanks inside homes, which account for 83% of Aedes aegypti mosquito breeding sites.
Villar Bahamonde urged residents not to discard abate, a larvicide that remains effective even after several water changes. He also advised citizens to enhance hygiene practices, such as using sodium hypochlorite to purify water, and to prevent food poisoning by adhering to strict conservation standards.
The current spike in cases occurs amid a high vector infestation and the persistent presence of at least two dengue serotypes (3 and 4). While no critical cases have been reported yet, the combination of dengue, Oropouche, and respiratory diseases underscores the importance of preventive measures and epidemiological monitoring.
The resurgence in dengue cases is further compounded by the crisis in communal services and a fuel shortage that hampers fumigation efforts. High temperatures, heavy rainfall, and disruptions in electricity supply create conditions favorable for the proliferation of the mosquito vector.
The Ministry of Public Health and epidemiologist Francisco Durán García have indicated that dengue remains active in three provinces, including Pinar del Río, with transmission occurring in at least four municipalities and health areas. However, no severe or critical cases have been reported so far.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dengue in Pinar del Río
Which municipalities in Pinar del Río are most affected by dengue?
The municipalities of Guane, Sandino, Los Palacios, Pinar del Río, and San Luis are identified as high-risk areas for dengue.
What actions are being taken to control the spread of dengue?
Health authorities have intensified efforts including fever blockades, fumigations, and treating clean water containers to prevent Aedes aegypti breeding.
Are there other health concerns in Pinar del Río besides dengue?
Yes, there is a rise in respiratory illnesses due to viruses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus circulating in the province.