A Cuban woman took to social media to describe her harrowing experience with the virus currently plaguing Matanzas, calling the days of fever and intense pain "unbearable." Her account adds to a growing number of reports highlighting the severity of the viral outbreak impacting Cuba, with a particular focus on this western province.
"Day two with the virus. This is dark, this is unbearable. Your body becomes paralyzed, your joints, you can't stand up," the woman shared in a video that has since gone viral. "I have a fever, pain in my legs, in my head... My joints are swelling." These symptoms align with those of chikungunya, a virus spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, as confirmed by the Pedro Kourí Institute (IPK) since July.
Despite local authorities' reluctance to declare a health emergency, citizen testimonials and media reports indicate a situation spiraling out of control. On the streets, the illness has been colloquially dubbed "that thing going around,"—a phrase borrowed from the Van Van repertoire—capturing the fear, uncertainty, and lack of official information surrounding the outbreak.
This moniker recurs in discussions, social media posts, and local news, reflecting not only the virus's physical impact but also its symbolic dimension: something unseen, creeping in unannounced, transforming everyday life. In her video, the woman also lamented the scarcity of medications and supplements like Polivit, which are hard to come by even in informal markets. "If you have the chance to buy, do it. This is really strong," she advised, sighing deeply.
The health situation in Matanzas has worsened in recent weeks due to accumulating garbage, prolonged power outages, and a collapsing healthcare system. As the Faustino Pérez Provincial Hospital becomes a focal point for fever cases, residents in Santa Marta and Cárdenas report entire neighborhoods showing symptoms.
Activists like Amelia Calzadilla have publicly called for a health emergency declaration, criticizing the lack of official information and state response. "What virus is this? How do you prevent it? How do you treat it?" she recently questioned online. The virus, often mistaken for dengue or even a new strain, continues to spread across the island. Meanwhile, in Matanzas, residents struggle against pain and misinformation, as mosquitoes continue to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Matanzas Virus Outbreak
What virus is currently affecting Matanzas?
The virus in question is chikungunya, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, as confirmed by the Pedro Kourí Institute since July.
What are the main symptoms of the virus?
Symptoms include fever, severe joint pain, swelling of the joints, and headaches, which align with chikungunya.
Has there been an official health emergency declared in Matanzas?
No official health emergency has been declared despite the severe situation and calls from activists and residents.
What challenges are residents facing in Matanzas?
Residents are dealing with a shortage of medications, accumulating waste, power outages, and a stressed healthcare system.