Cuba's Prime Minister, Manuel Marrero Cruz, expressed confidence that the nation can overcome the current health crisis triggered by the dengue outbreak. This optimism comes amidst one of the most severe epidemiological situations in recent years, with the virus actively spreading across several provinces and hospitals nearing capacity.
“It is indeed possible to control this situation, even in a short period, but it requires dedicating all necessary resources and efforts,” stated the head of government during a video conference held from the Palace of the Revolution. The meeting, attended by Vice President Salvador Valdés Mesa, also tackled economic issues and social program support, although the health crisis dominated the discussions.
Marrero emphasized the importance of enhancing epidemiological surveillance, ensuring the availability of insecticide treatments, and keeping the public informed, “correcting misinformation wherever necessary.” His remarks come at a time of increasing concern over the spread of dengue, chikungunya, and Oropouche fever, which are currently circulating in at least 12 provinces, as reported by the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP).
In Ciego de Ávila, local officials confirmed active transmission in the municipalities of Morón and the provincial capital, noting a sustained rise in febrile cases and a high infestation of the mosquito vector.
While Marrero calls for solutions, health officials acknowledge a shortage of essential resources. Deputy Minister Carilda Peña recently admitted the lack of sufficient fuel for fumigation and advised the public to use “citrus peel burning” as a homemade method to repel mosquitoes. This suggestion, widely criticized on social media, highlights the precarious state of Cuba's healthcare system, where hospitals face shortages of medications, insecticides, and medical staff.
The Pedro Kourí Institute of Tropical Medicine (IPK) confirmed that environmental conditions—such as heat, rain, garbage accumulation, and water supply deficiencies—have facilitated the virus's spread, especially affecting children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
Dr. María Guadalupe Guzmán, head of the IPK's Research Center, explained that dengue and chikungunya are currently the most prevalent viral diseases in Cuba, warning of the population's vulnerability to the vector's rapid spread.
In neighborhoods across various provinces, residents paint a starkly different picture from the official optimism. In Ciro Redondo, Ciego de Ávila, residents report living amid foul-smelling water and larvae for over a month, with no response or effective action from authorities. In pediatric hospitals in Havana and Camagüey, parents report overcrowding, lack of medical attention, and unsanitary conditions.
Despite the rising number of infections and the official acknowledgment of three dengue-related deaths this year, the government's rhetoric remains centered on resilience and control. Marrero urged discipline, leadership action, and a “fighting spirit” to overcome the health crisis. However, in Cuban neighborhoods, where repellents, mosquito nets, and clean water are scarce, many citizens echo a different sentiment: “We can do this... but not without resources.”
Addressing the Dengue Crisis in Cuba
What is causing the current dengue outbreak in Cuba?
The dengue outbreak in Cuba is being exacerbated by environmental conditions such as heat, frequent rainfall, garbage accumulation, and inadequate water supply, which have created a conducive environment for the mosquito vector to thrive and spread the virus.
How is the Cuban government responding to the dengue crisis?
The Cuban government, led by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, is calling for increased epidemiological surveillance, adequate insecticide treatment availability, and public awareness efforts. However, there is a significant shortage of resources, including fuel for fumigation, which complicates the response efforts.
What are the challenges faced by the Cuban healthcare system during this outbreak?
The Cuban healthcare system is struggling with shortages of essential supplies such as medications, insecticides, and medical personnel. Additionally, hospitals are experiencing overcrowding and unsanitary conditions, further complicating efforts to manage the outbreak.