In light of the escalating public health crisis affecting the Cuban populace, medical organizations Solidaridad Sin Fronteras and International Green Cross have called for the declaration of a public health emergency in Cuba. This appeal follows the regime's official acknowledgment of a chikungunya epidemic.
During a weekend press conference in Miami, Taimy Alfonso, President of International Green Cross, condemned the Cuban regime's misappropriation of humanitarian aid sent from abroad. "We are tired of sending supplies to help people only for them to be stolen and sold," Alfonso lamented.
She emphasized, "We are willing to keep helping, but the aid must reach those in need directly. The Cuban people are at their breaking point: they lack money, food, everything. It's a tragedy."
A Call to Action: The Urgent Need for Direct Aid
Solidaridad Sin Fronteras has also accused the regime of confiscating medical donations and essential goods meant for the sick and disadvantaged in Cuba. "We cannot stand idly by while our brothers, children, pregnant women, and elderly die like animals," stated Julio César Alfonso, the NGO's president.
The Ministry of Public Health of Cuba (MINSAP) confirmed the chikungunya epidemic, reporting over 31,000 suspected cases. However, Cuban doctors in exile suggest the actual number could be significantly higher. "We don't know the real figures; they hide them to protect their image and tourism," said Dr. Alfredo Melgar, founder of Solidaridad Sin Fronteras.
International Concerns and Travel Advisories
From the Democratic Movement, President Ramón Saúl Sánchez criticized the regime for failing to acknowledge the dire situation facing the Cuban people, indicating that in many communities, deaths are counted daily.
These NGOs have also highlighted the travel risks associated with the crisis, urging the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to raise the health alert for Cuba to level 4, the highest, advising against travel to the island. The current advisory remains at level 2, suggesting travel with precautions.
Solidaridad Sin Fronteras and International Green Cross have urged other organizations to join a collective appeal to multilateral bodies for an urgent health intervention in Cuba to save lives and prevent a greater catastrophe.
The Cuban regime recently admitted to facing a chikungunya epidemic and continues to report dengue cases. Although there have been no Oropouche virus cases since September and no Zika cases detected, with the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in the country, the potential for transmission remains. MINSAP maintains epidemiological vigilance for these diseases.
FAQs about Cuba's Health Emergency
What diseases are currently affecting Cuba?
Cuba is currently facing a chikungunya epidemic and is also reporting cases of dengue. Although no Oropouche or Zika cases have been detected recently, there is still a risk due to the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
Why are NGOs demanding a public health emergency in Cuba?
NGOs are demanding a public health emergency to address the severe health crisis and misappropriation of humanitarian aid in Cuba, which is exacerbating the suffering of the Cuban people.
What is the current travel advisory level for Cuba?
The travel advisory for Cuba is currently at level 2, advising travel with precautions. However, there are calls to raise it to level 4, advising against travel to the island.