The Ministry of Public Health announced on Wednesday that the chikungunya virus, initially identified in Matanzas, has now spread to five provinces in Cuba. This development comes amid a complex epidemiological scenario exacerbated by an increase in Aedes mosquitoes and cases of fever across the nation. According to Dr. Francisco Durán, the national director of Epidemiology, the virus began in the municipality of Perico (Matanzas) and is now present in Matanzas, Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Pinar del Río, and Havana. In Matanzas, cases have been confirmed in Cárdenas, Perico, Martí, and Jovellanos, while in Havana, cases have been reported in Arroyo Naranjo, Cerro, and Playa.
The nationwide health situation also includes dengue fever and oropouche virus, with the latter actively transmitting in 12 provinces. Dr. Durán noted that dengue currently has seven patients in serious condition, although none are in critical states, and oropouche is not causing severe complications.
Dr. Durán attributed the spread of these arboviruses to a combination of factors, including rainfall, high temperatures, and garbage accumulation, which create breeding grounds for mosquitoes. He emphasized that chikungunya is transmitted by both Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes—the latter found in forested and green areas—thus expanding the risk scenarios.
Regarding symptoms, he highlighted that chikungunya causes severe joint pain that can persist even after the acute phase, while dengue is known for its intense pain, often referred to as "breakbone fever." "It truly causes a lot of joint pain, and people feel very unwell even after the acute stage, sometimes having difficulty moving," he said about chikungunya.
Dr. Durán dismissed rumors of hospital collapses or high daily death tolls, urging the public to rely on official information to avoid confusion during this high-transmission season. On the same day, health authorities in the municipality of Sagua la Grande, Villa Clara, warned of a rise in fever cases in recent weeks amid an outbreak of several arboviruses impacting various Cuban provinces.
Authorities are implementing focal treatment (abate), fumigation, adulticide applications, and peripheral actions. So far, there are no severe or critical cases, and health services are not overwhelmed. In just one week, the municipality of Colón in Matanzas reported 435 unspecified febrile syndromes, with 40 beds occupied and five patients showing alarming signs.
Understanding Chikungunya and Its Impact in Cuba
What provinces in Cuba are currently affected by the chikungunya virus?
The chikungunya virus is currently affecting the provinces of Matanzas, Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Pinar del Río, and Havana.
How does the chikungunya virus spread?
The chikungunya virus is primarily spread through the bites of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.
What measures are being taken to control the spread of chikungunya in Cuba?
Authorities are conducting focal treatments, fumigations, adulticide applications, and peripheral actions to control mosquito populations and prevent the spread of the virus.