The U.S. Embassy in Havana released a health advisory on Thursday warning travelers about the rising cases of dengue, chikungunya, and Oropouche virus in Cuba. Confirmed outbreaks have been identified in Matanzas Province, with additional reports from Ciego de Ávila.
As per the official statement, these illnesses are spread by vectors such as mosquitoes and sandflies, which have shown a notable increase in recent weeks. U.S. authorities urge travelers to take necessary precautions against bites and to review their medical and insurance options prior to visiting Cuba.
The advisory encourages visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for detailed information on symptoms, preventive measures, and vaccine availability. It also recommends consulting with primary care physicians regarding immunization and with travel insurance providers about evacuation options in case of illness abroad.
This outbreak occurs against the backdrop of Cuba's struggling healthcare system, plagued by a lack of essential medications and resources, heightening concerns for both locals and visitors. Through this alert, the U.S. aims to inform its citizens about the current health risks in Cuba and to reinforce preventive measures for diseases that could become severe if not addressed promptly.
The U.S. advisory aligns with a similar warning issued by the Canadian government, which continues to recommend a high degree of caution due to the severe scarcity of basic supplies like food, medicine, potable water, and fuel, alongside health and safety risks faced by travelers.
Dr. Francisco Durán, National Director of Epidemiology at the Cuban Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), noted that dengue is actively transmitted in seven provinces and eight municipalities, with the recent addition of the Martí municipality in Matanzas Province. Additionally, Oropouche cases have been reported in 11 provinces, 23 municipalities, and 28 health areas, though no severe complications have been observed so far.
Regarding chikungunya, transmission persists in two local councils within the Perico municipality of Matanzas. However, according to MINSAP, there have been no reports of severe cases or significant complications, with intense joint pain being the most common symptom.
Cuba Travel Health Concerns
What diseases are currently affecting travelers to Cuba?
Travelers to Cuba are currently facing risks from dengue, chikungunya, and Oropouche virus outbreaks.
How are these diseases transmitted?
These diseases are transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes and sandflies.
What preventive measures should travelers take?
Travelers should take precautions to avoid bites, consult healthcare providers about vaccines, and review their travel insurance options.
What is the current state of Cuba's healthcare system?
Cuba's healthcare system is experiencing significant shortages in medications and basic resources, complicating the management of disease outbreaks.