The town of Trinidad, situated in Sancti Spíritus, is mourning the loss of a young boy named Yoel, who tragically succumbed to complications linked to hemorrhagic dengue—a disease currently impacting numerous Cuban provinces severely.
On social media, family members, neighbors, and friends have shared their deep sorrow over the loss of a child remembered as joyful, affectionate, and respectful. "Rest in peace, my beautiful boy, I have no words to express the immense pain I feel wherever you are... your mom, your brother, your dad, and the whole family will always remember you. Fly high, my prince," wrote a grieving relative in a heart-wrenching message.
The entire neighborhood is in tears over his departure. "Your whole neighborhood feels your loss deeply. You were just a child beginning to grow; may God always light your way, Yoel," expressed another neighbor.
Other tributes highlight the personal impact of this tragedy. "My God, I am at a loss for words to express such pain... my sincerest condolences to your mom, your dad, and your little brother. Fly high, prince, Jehovah will have you in his celestial embrace as another cherished angel," shared an online user.
Another individual reminisced, "I saw him born, I spent his entire childhood with him. Chubby, healthy, playful, yet respectful and loving. You're leaving us, and we will never forget you, neither my family nor I. I know you will be one of the most beloved little angels."
Active Dengue Transmission in Seven Cuban Provinces
Yoel's death coincides with a period when Cuba's Ministry of Public Health has acknowledged active dengue transmission in seven provinces. Francisco Durán, the national director of Epidemiology, reported that four patients remain in intensive care, two of whom are in serious condition and two critical, amid a surge in infections.
Durán warned that while most patients manage to recover, dengue can lead to complications necessitating immediate medical intervention. He also pointed out that the virus's spread occurs against a backdrop of a fragile health system, characterized by medication shortages, ineffective control of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, and issues with access to clean water.
The epidemiological situation is further complicated by the presence of the Oropouche virus, circulating in 11 provinces, and chikungunya, with cases reported in Matanzas. Health authorities are urging the public to enhance preventive measures, avoid self-medication, and seek prompt medical attention if experiencing fever, severe pain, or suspicious symptoms.
A Tragedy Highlighting Cuban Families' Vulnerability
Yoel's death, a child just beginning his life's journey, is a devastating blow to his family and community. It also serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by hundreds of families in Cuba amid disease outbreaks that thrive in a context of healthcare crises and structural deficiencies.
As his community bids farewell with tears and memories, the grief over his passing intertwines with the growing concern of a nation striving to curb the spread of dengue and its most severe consequences.
Dengue and Public Health Challenges in Cuba
What is causing the spread of dengue in Cuba?
The spread of dengue in Cuba is exacerbated by a fragile health system, medication shortages, ineffective mosquito control, and problems with access to potable water.
How are Cuban health authorities responding to the dengue outbreak?
Cuban health authorities are urging the public to take preventive measures, avoid self-medication, and seek medical care if they experience fever, severe pain, or symptoms indicative of dengue.