Guantánamo province is grappling with over 9,000 medical consultations for acute respiratory infections from January to August this year, marking a rise compared to the previous year. Specialists attribute this increase to both the seasonal nature of these illnesses and escalating temperatures, which create favorable conditions for the spread of viruses and bacteria.
The municipalities of Niceto Pérez, Caimanera, Yateras, San Antonio del Sur, Manuel Tames, and the provincial capital are reporting the highest numbers of cases. The most vulnerable groups include children aged one to four years and adults over 65, according to the official newspaper Venceremos.
Among the pathogens identified are the respiratory syncytial virus—known for causing bronchiolitis in children—the influenza AH1N1, and rhinovirus. The presence of SARS-CoV-2, responsible for COVID-19, is noted as minimal, with current clinical manifestations being milder, as reported by Dr. Aimé Blanco Chivas, head of Transmissible Diseases at the Provincial Hygiene and Epidemiology Center.
Escalating Health Measures and Public Advisory
In response, authorities have heightened epidemiological surveillance across all healthcare levels, from family doctor clinics to hospitals and emergency services. They have also intensified public health education campaigns to curb the spread. Dr. Blanco urged residents to seek medical attention at the first sign of symptoms and to adhere to preventive measures like frequent handwashing, proper ventilation, avoiding crowded spaces, and consuming treated water.
Vaccination against COVID-19 remains a priority, with doses available for the entire population to prevent severe complications.
Healthcare System Under Pressure
Amidst an intensely hot summer and high viral circulation, the local health system faces mounting pressure. Officials caution against underestimating symptoms that could lead to severe conditions, particularly among at-risk groups.
Hospitals in various Cuban provinces have reopened their wards for patients with COVID-19-compatible symptoms, following the admission of numerous individuals with respiratory issues. Although official statistics have not been released, medical staff have confirmed a rise in hospitalizations linked to the XFG variant, a highly contagious strain descending from Omicron, even affecting asymptomatic individuals, as reported by the state-run Radio Mambí.
Government Reaction and Public Concerns
The Ministry of Public Health (Minsap) has issued warnings about a sustained increase in acute respiratory diseases, dengue, and hepatitis A in various provinces, depicting a national epidemiological scenario that is increasingly complex.
During an August 6th television appearance, Dr. Francisco Durán García, Minsap's national director of Epidemiology, emphasized that dengue remains the most complex arboviral disease circulating in the country. He urged the public to seek medical care for any febrile conditions, noting that two severe dengue cases have been reported without specifying their location.
Dr. Durán addressed the ongoing presence of chikungunya in two communities in Perico, Matanzas. Meanwhile, he downplayed social media concerns about a potential rise in the XFG COVID-19 variant, denying that Cuban hospitals are overwhelmed with coronavirus cases. He stated there isn't a significant increase in cases, though no specific numbers were provided.
In July, Cuba's Minister of Public Health, José Ángel Portal Miranda, acknowledged before the National Assembly that the healthcare system is undergoing an unprecedented structural crisis, characterized by a mere 30% coverage of essential medications and widespread deterioration of medical services.
Key Health Concerns in Guantánamo
What are the main respiratory viruses affecting Guantánamo?
The main respiratory viruses impacting Guantánamo include the respiratory syncytial virus, influenza AH1N1, and rhinovirus, with a minor presence of SARS-CoV-2.
Who are the most vulnerable groups to respiratory infections in Guantánamo?
Children aged one to four years and adults over 65 years are the most vulnerable to respiratory infections in Guantánamo.
What preventive measures are recommended to curb respiratory infections?
Preventive measures include frequent handwashing, proper ventilation of spaces, avoiding crowded places, consuming treated water, and seeking medical attention at the first sign of symptoms.