Heavy rainfall on October 9 led to a severe sewage flooding at the Coco and Rabí Clinic, also known as Clínica Acción Médica, located in Havana's 10 de Octubre municipality. The deluge inundated the medical facility with murky, foul-smelling water, as captured in videos shared by activist Orlando Ramírez Cutiño on social media.
The footage reveals the grim situation inside the clinic, where dirty water surged into the rooms, reaching ankle-deep levels. Patients, some on stretchers and others seated with their feet elevated, struggled to avoid contact with the contaminated liquid.
"Look at how the Coco and Rabí Clinic in 10 de Octubre is flooded," commented Ramírez Cutiño when posting the videos. He highlighted the lack of basic sanitary conditions at the facility, where his wife was receiving an IV drip.
The scenes expose the structural and drainage deficiencies plaguing the health center and its vicinity, worsened by the downpour and the government's neglect. "And then they wonder why there's dengue, chikungunya, and all sorts of diseases in this country," the activist remarked, visibly angered by the health risks posed by such unsanitary conditions.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism on social media, where citizens are voicing their concerns about the deteriorating Cuban healthcare system and the inadequate response to emergencies like this one.
Impact of Flooding on Cuban Healthcare Facilities
What caused the flooding at the Coco and Rabí Clinic?
The flooding was caused by intense rainfall on October 9, which led to a severe overflow of sewage water into the clinic.
How did the flooding affect patients at the clinic?
Patients were exposed to contaminated water, with some on stretchers and others trying to keep their feet elevated to avoid contact with the sewage.
What are the criticisms being voiced on social media?
Critics are highlighting the deteriorating Cuban healthcare system and the lack of effective governmental response to such emergencies.