Amid soaring temperatures and relentless rainfall, coupled with inadequate water storage and a garbage collection crisis, Santiago de Cuba is experiencing a significant increase in mosquito-borne diseases and digestive illnesses. Health experts are raising alarms about the potential health hazards and urging the public to take action.
The recent weather patterns, marked by extreme heat and rain following a prolonged dry spell, have heightened the risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Oropouche fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever in Santiago de Cuba. Dr. Yaimara Gutiérrez de la Cruz, head of the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology, has sounded the alarm on this growing threat.
Widespread Presence of Arboviruses
Dr. Gutiérrez detailed that all three arboviruses are circulating in the province, though their prevalence varies. Dengue, in particular, is actively spreading in Palma Soriano and Santiago de Cuba, while other municipalities remain at high risk due to the widespread infestation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, as reported by the official newspaper, Sierra Maestra.
“The water shortage and the increase of improperly maintained water storage, along with poor sanitation in yards and rooftops, are creating a dire situation,” warned Gutiérrez, emphasizing that community involvement is crucial in overcoming this challenge.
Joint Effort Needed
She concurred that the government, the Ministry of Public Health (Minsap), and vector control teams bear significant responsibility in resolving this crisis, but stressed it is a collective issue. Despite efforts to improve the sanitation crisis concerning waste and water supply, without public cooperation, overcoming the situation seems insurmountable.
Preventive Measures Against Digestive Diseases
Meanwhile, Dr. Gonzalo Urgellés Aguilar, head of the digestive disease control program at CPHEM, highlighted that rainfall has polluted water sources and poor handling of water and food is increasing acute diarrhea cases. He advised frequent handwashing, boiling water, washing fruits and vegetables, and keeping animal pens and trash bins clean.
Dr. Urgellés also underscored the importance of having oral rehydration salts available and seeking medical attention for symptoms like vomiting, fever, or diarrhea, particularly in children, pregnant women, and the elderly. “Simple actions at home can prevent significant risks when it comes to acute diarrheal diseases,” he concluded.
Several other Cuban provinces, including Holguín, Ciego de Ávila, Villa Clara, and Havana, are witnessing a resurgence of arboviral diseases. However, in areas like Camagüey, authorities have yet to issue a public warning despite the rise in febrile cases.
Frequently Asked Questions about Health Risks in Santiago de Cuba
What diseases are currently prevalent in Santiago de Cuba?
Diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Oropouche fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever are currently prevalent in Santiago de Cuba.
How can residents prevent the spread of these diseases?
Residents can prevent the spread of these diseases by maintaining proper sanitation, ensuring clean water storage, washing hands frequently, and seeking medical attention if symptoms arise.
What role does public cooperation play in managing this health crisis?
Public cooperation is crucial in managing the health crisis, as community involvement is needed to improve sanitation and prevent the spread of diseases.