CubaHeadlines

Swiss Donation of Medical Supplies Arrives in Matanzas Amid Health Crisis

Sunday, October 12, 2025 by Michael Hernandez

A shipment of medical supplies donated by Switzerland has reached the Comandante Faustino Pérez Clinical Surgical Hospital in Matanzas, offering vital aid as the province grapples with a severe health crisis. The hospital announced on Facebook, "Solidarity container for Cuba from Switzerland! The city of Matanzas receives a new shipment of medical supplies and equipment this Saturday, October 11, coordinated by Medicubasuiza and Quisicuaba."

The hospital expressed gratitude, stating, "We at the HFP in Matanzas appreciate the support provided by the delegates of the Municipal Assembly of People's Power of the provincial capital municipality."

Indeed, the Municipal Assembly of People's Power in Matanzas confirmed their delegates assisted in unloading the container, which contained crucial medical supplies and medications for the Comandante Faustino Pérez Hospital, according to a Facebook post.

Government's Downplay of the Health Crisis

This donation arrives amidst a health crisis that the government attempts to downplay, attributing it primarily to the tropical climate. Health authorities from the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) in Matanzas have warned that "dengue fever is deadly," despite their assurance that there have been no deaths from dengue or the chikungunya virus in the province. This comes as the region has been experiencing a surge in febrile illnesses, putting increasing strain on the healthcare system.

Mobilization of Medical Students

In response to the escalating situation, about 2,500 students from the University of Medical Sciences have been mobilized to assist in controlling arbovirus outbreaks. The Minister of Public Health, José Ángel Portal Miranda, has stated that there have been no deaths attributed to dengue or chikungunya in the western province, despite reports of healthcare system collapse and rising cases of febrile illnesses.

The official stance that "there are no deaths" starkly contrasts with citizen complaints and unofficial medical reports suggesting a far more dire situation, as the visible collapse of the healthcare system in the province becomes apparent.

Addressing the Health Crisis in Matanzas

What was donated by Switzerland to Matanzas?

Switzerland donated a container filled with medical supplies and equipment to the Comandante Faustino Pérez Clinical Surgical Hospital in Matanzas.

How is the Cuban government responding to the health crisis?

The Cuban government is attempting to downplay the health crisis, attributing it to the tropical climate, and has mobilized 2,500 medical students to help control the situation.

What is the current health situation in Matanzas?

Matanzas is facing a surge in cases of febrile illnesses and significant pressure on its healthcare system, despite official claims that no deaths have resulted from dengue or chikungunya.

© CubaHeadlines 2025