Amid a worsening epidemiological scenario, Cuba reported 107 individuals currently in intensive care units due to arboviral infections. This figure starkly contrasts with official statements that have been emphasizing specific progress.
Carilda Peña García, the Deputy Minister of Public Health, acknowledged on the state television program "Buenos Días" that the nation is experiencing a surge in severe cases within the epidemic of arboviruses, particularly chikungunya, which is spreading despite declared interventions.
Out of the 107 patients in intensive care, 79 are classified as severe, and 28 are critically ill. Alarmingly, most of the critical cases are among those under 18, including newborns, whose complications necessitate continuous monitoring.
Authorities disclosed that 6,793 individuals with nonspecific febrile syndrome were identified in the previous day. Of these, 88% required hospitalization, and 43,911 patients are currently under surveillance.
The positivity rate for the dengue IGM test has climbed to 24.6%, up from 18.5% the day before, following an increased number of tests conducted on the sixth day of symptoms.
Despite these worsening indicators, the Ministry of Public Health maintains that some municipalities have seen a decrease in fever-related visits, although it concedes that other areas are experiencing a rise in suspected cases.
Mosquito breeding sites continue to pose a significant challenge, with 416 new sites identified, keeping the infestation rate high.
Regarding chikungunya, 826 new cases have been documented, totaling 37,194 infections since the epidemic began. Only six of these were confirmed via PCR, contributing to a total of 1,177 diagnoses through this method.
Dr. Peña emphasized that the statistical system only accounts for those seeking medical attention at clinics, polyclinics, or hospitals, underscoring the personal responsibility to get tested as advised.
The authorities highlighted that 96% of the fumigation plan has been completed, presenting this as progress, although equipment shortages persist in several areas.
Additionally, they announced the commencement of clinical trials in Matanzas and expanded influenza vaccination to younger age groups in regions with more complex epidemiological conditions.
Despite these measures, the Deputy Minister admitted that the country cannot yet claim the epidemic is under control, noting the outbreak's behavior remains inconsistent and unpredictable across different municipalities.
Understanding the Arbovirus Epidemic in Cuba
What is causing the increase in intensive care admissions in Cuba?
The rise in intensive care admissions is primarily due to an escalating epidemic of arboviral infections, notably chikungunya, which has been expanding despite efforts to control it.
How are the Cuban authorities responding to the epidemic?
Cuban authorities have intensified fumigation efforts and expanded influenza vaccination to younger populations in high-risk areas. Clinical trials are also underway in Matanzas to combat the epidemic.
What challenges are Cuban health officials facing?
Health officials are grappling with equipment shortages for fumigation, high infestation rates of mosquito breeding sites, and an inconsistency in the epidemic's behavior across various regions.