A sudden outbreak of diarrhea forced an emergency stop of extra train number 18, traveling from Manzanillo to Havana, after several passengers began showing symptoms of food poisoning during the journey. The incident unfolded Thursday afternoon as the train was passing through Jicotea, a community within the Ranchuelo municipality in Villa Clara province, according to a report by pro-government journalist Henry Omar Pérez on his Facebook profile.
Health protocols were swiftly activated by the Provincial Health Directorate to assist the 653 passengers aboard. Among the measures taken, 29 individuals required hospitalization: five children were sent to Santa Clara's Pediatric Hospital, and 21 adults were admitted to the Arnaldo Milián Castro Provincial Hospital.
Sanitary authorities conducted a comprehensive health screening of all travelers to detect any additional cases and implement epidemiological control actions. The official journalist emphasized that initial reports showed no fatalities or severe cases.
The Facebook page La Tijera reported that the Bayamo–Manzanillo–Havana train had departed on Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. By approximately 11:00 a.m. the following day, passengers, including several children, began experiencing vomiting and diarrhea, with the situation worsening as the journey continued. Upon reaching Jicotea in Villa Clara, the train was halted for urgent medical intervention. Ambulances and medical staff arrived promptly to transport the sick to the nearest hospital.
La Tijera attributed the outbreak to tainted snacks sold onboard by Ferrocarriles de Cuba. By 3:00 p.m. on September 18, the train remained stationary in the area, as detailed in the report. Officials from the Communist Party and the local government of Villa Clara and Ranchuelo were present to oversee the care of those affected and ensure compliance with health measures.
The situation was described as stabilized due to the swift response from medical institutions and local authorities' support, although epidemiological monitoring in the region continues. Previously, El Toque reported receiving information that the train was stranded in Jicotea, Villa Clara, because over 50 individuals were experiencing diarrhea and vomiting, necessitating its halt due to the severity of the situation.
El Toque highlighted that a user recounted the community's rapid mobilization to aid the sick, but criticized the Ministry of Transport's Empresa Viajero for not providing a solution for passengers stranded at the site. They reported that affected individuals requested bus transport to Havana for the ill, allowing others to continue to their destinations, yet reportedly received no response. The complainant questioned whether authorities were "waiting for them to collapse from weakness," underscoring the regime's neglect and sluggishness.
In July, several children in the Vertientes municipality were hospitalized at the Provincial Pediatric Hospital of Camagüey after consuming gummy candies containing marijuana, as confirmed by psychiatry and mental health specialists at the medical facility. The urgent warning was issued by independent journalist José Luis Tan Estrada and several mothers from Camagüey, cautioning that all Kush Queen brand products contain psychoactive substances, posing a significant health risk to children.
Subsequently, health authorities confirmed that three children from Vertientes were urgently hospitalized after consuming marijuana-laden gummies.
Diarrhea Outbreak on Manzanillo-Havana Train: Key Questions
What caused the diarrhea outbreak on the Manzanillo to Havana train?
The outbreak was reportedly caused by contaminated snacks sold onboard by Ferrocarriles de Cuba.
How many passengers were affected by the outbreak?
Over 50 passengers exhibited symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, with 29 people requiring hospitalization.
What measures were taken in response to the outbreak?
Health protocols were activated, and medical staff provided urgent care. A comprehensive health screening was conducted to identify and control further cases.
Did the authorities provide transport solutions for the stranded passengers?
According to reports, the Ministry of Transport's Empresa Viajero did not offer transport solutions, leaving passengers without assistance.