The Public Health system has verified an active transmission of dengue in the municipalities of Morón and Ciego de Ávila, with a noticeable uptick in suspected cases and a high infestation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, worsening the province's epidemiological crisis.
Dr. Kesnel Lima Ruíz, the provincial Health Director, stated that community screenings continue in high-risk areas, while surveillance teams are intensifying control measures in the most impacted regions. "We have no fatalities due to arboviruses. Only three patients are in serious but stable condition, with all necessary medications and supplies available," Lima declared during a special live broadcast on Televisión Avileña and the Provincial Radio Network, as reported by the official newspaper Invasor.
He mentioned that temporary work groups have been established in each municipality to maintain hygiene and sanitary actions. Despite the absence of reported deaths, specialists warn of a potential spike due to the simultaneous presence of other arboviruses, such as chikungunya and Oropouche, identified in samples analyzed by the Pedro Kourí Institute of Tropical Medicine (IPK).
Escalating Health Concerns in Ciego de Ávila
Dr. Eduardo Artiles Pardo, Director of the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology, highlighted a steady rise in non-specific febrile syndromes in the province, with the highest incidence observed in Ciego de Ávila and Venezuela. He explained that the current conditions (poor sanitation, heat, and recent rains) have led to a high infestation rate.
Regarding dengue, he indicated an increase in its incidence and reactivity, with primary hotspots in Ciego de Ávila, Florencia, and Chambas. Furthermore, he noted that Morón and Ciego de Ávila are experiencing active transmission phases, classifying five municipalities—Chambas, Florencia, Majagua, Venezuela, and Baraguá—as high-risk.
Public Advised to Remain Vigilant
Authorities urged residents to seek medical attention immediately upon experiencing any symptoms, however mild, to determine appropriate clinical management, which may include hospitalization or home monitoring. The importance of not underestimating dengue symptoms was emphasized due to the risk of complications from reinfection.
During the broadcast, there was a warning about the irresponsibility of those ignoring home isolation and the potential creation of mosquito breeding grounds due to water storage necessities (caused by drought) and accumulation in containers (due to rain). The need for strict isolation adherence and maintaining hydration was underscored.
Despite the severe epidemiological situation in the province, residents of Ciro Redondo municipality report living amid foul waters and larvae for over a month, with no response from the government or water authorities. In Palmira, Cienfuegos, official reports indicate 250 to 350 cases of febrile syndromes weekly.
A Cuban mother took to social media to highlight the dire conditions at the “Eduardo Agramonte Piña” Pediatric Hospital in Camagüey, where, according to her testimony, only one pediatrician was available to care for all admitted children amidst a healthcare collapse affecting several provinces.
Understanding Dengue and Health Challenges in Cuba
What measures are being taken to control dengue in Ciego de Ávila?
The health authorities are conducting active screenings in high-risk communities and enhancing surveillance in the most affected areas. Temporary work groups have been established in each municipality to uphold hygiene and sanitary measures.
Why is there a high risk of dengue in Cuba?
The high risk is attributed to poor sanitation conditions, the presence of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, and environmental factors such as heat and recent rains, which create ideal breeding conditions for the mosquito.
What other health threats are present in the region?
Besides dengue, other arboviruses like chikungunya and Oropouche have been detected, posing additional health threats in the region.