The Puerto Príncipe Hotel, situated on the bustling Avenida de los Mártires in Camagüey, has been forced to close its doors, not for renovations, but because of a severe bedbug infestation. According to local reports, the pest problem has now spread to an area extending two blocks from the hotel.
On Facebook, journalist José Luis Tan Estrada highlighted the dire situation faced by residents nearby. They are struggling with both frequent power outages and relentless bedbug bites, leaving them unable to find respite day or night.
This incident is yet another indicator of the urban decay and poor sanitary conditions plaguing the city. The structural issues are now exacerbated by infestations that threaten both the health and quality of life of its inhabitants.
Bedbug Outbreaks in Santiago de Cuba Hospital
In July, a serious complaint emerged regarding the conditions at the Gustavo Machín Psychiatric Hospital, known as "Jagüa," in Santiago de Cuba. A video surfaced showing an elderly, frail patient, motionless and covered in insects crawling on his body, clothes, and bed.
The footage, shared by journalist Mario J. Pentón on Facebook, exposes the neglect and lack of hygiene at this mental health facility. Despite some caregivers being heard laughing in the video, concern over the man's wellbeing is evident as they question if he had been fed.
This is not the first public outcry over such an infestation. Since April, bedbug outbreaks have expanded from Artemisa to other provinces, becoming a persistent issue in homes, state and private institutions, warehouses, transportation, and public areas. Nevertheless, health authorities have not prioritized the situation.
Various facilities have had to close, suspend activities, fumigate repeatedly, and even dispose of infested furniture. Numerous residential properties have experienced re-infestations despite treatment efforts, as acknowledged by the local newspaper El Artemiseño.
In July 2024, CiberCuba published an article warning of the bedbug proliferation in the same hospital. The report indicated that patients and staff had been enduring the infestation for five months, despite the center's efforts to eliminate it.
The report featured photographs highlighting the severe epidemiological issue, shared by journalist Yosmany Mayeta. Mayeta stressed that although this situation is not new, the hygienic problems in Cuban hospitals should not become normalized. He urged the Provincial Health Directorate of Santiago de Cuba to address and resolve these issues decisively.
Understanding the Bedbug Crisis in Cuba
What is causing the bedbug infestations in Cuba?
The bedbug infestations in Cuba are attributed to poor sanitary conditions and structural neglect in urban areas, which have created an environment conducive to pest proliferation.
How are residents affected by the bedbug problem?
Residents face significant disruptions due to the bedbug problem, including sleeplessness from frequent bites and health risks from the unsanitary conditions.
Are there efforts to control the bedbug outbreaks?
While some efforts such as fumigation and furniture disposal have been made, there is criticism that these actions have been insufficient and not prioritized by health authorities.