On Saturday, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel asserted that the government acted promptly in response to the surge of mosquito-borne diseases. He made these remarks during the 11th Plenary Session of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, held via videoconference from the Palace of the Revolution.
Published in the official newspaper Granma, Díaz-Canel's defense comes amidst a health crisis that independent reports suggest is far more severe than the authorities are acknowledging.
During his address, Díaz-Canel mentioned that measures were implemented in the most affected areas, such as Matanzas, once the alarm was raised about the rise in cases. He stated that the epidemic there shifted to a "relatively normal" state in just a few weeks.
Nonetheless, he conceded that the initial response faced challenges due to a primary focus on dengue, alongside the emergence of chikungunya, which, in his assessment, accelerated the spread of the new virus. He also admitted to resource limitations and internal organizational issues.
Health Challenges Amidst Official Denials
The topic of arbovirus control—encompassing diseases such as dengue and chikungunya—was also addressed by José Ángel Portal Miranda, the Minister of Public Health. He highlighted that the simultaneous circulation of both viruses presents a complex epidemiological challenge for the health system.
Official data reports that 47 individuals have died from arboviruses, with a rising number of fatalities in recent days, notably affecting children and teenagers. Numerous minors are critically ill or in intensive care due to dengue and chikungunya, while hospitals across various provinces are struggling with shortages of supplies, diagnostics, and medical personnel, even for severe cases.
Official Narratives vs. Ground Realities
The outbreak originated in Matanzas, where Minister Portal Miranda dismissed reports of deaths as "rumors" and assured that everything was "under control," despite reports of a healthcare system collapse, medication shortages, and overwhelmed hospitals.
Days later, an expert from the IPK stated that the epidemic "will pass" and soon become "a story to tell," which outraged thousands of patients suffering severe pain and unable to care for their children.
Civil society organizations and experts describe the situation as an overwhelming health crisis, where the lack of official transparency hides the true scale of the outbreak and its impact on the population.
Analysts argue that, beyond the official statements of targeted actions, the epidemic has been aggravated by structural problems within the healthcare system, the economic crisis, food and medicine shortages, and ineffective mosquito control programs due to a lack of fuel, chemicals, and equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Dengue and Chikungunya Crisis in Cuba
What measures has the Cuban government implemented to combat the dengue and chikungunya outbreak?
The Cuban government claims it has taken measures in the most affected areas, focusing on mosquito control and healthcare interventions, although the effectiveness and transparency of these efforts are questioned by independent reports.
How severe is the current health crisis in Cuba due to these diseases?
Independent reports indicate a severe health crisis, with numerous fatalities and many minors in critical condition, exacerbated by shortages in medical supplies and personnel.
Why is there skepticism about the official reports on the outbreak?
Skepticism arises from inconsistencies in official narratives, lack of transparency, and reports of significant resource shortages and healthcare system challenges not acknowledged by the government.