Renowned Cuban actor Luis Alberto García Novoa recently shared a unique message on social media regarding the aftermath of chikungunya, a disease that has been spreading rapidly throughout Cuba in recent months.
"I owe a debt of gratitude to the affectionate and persistent chikungunya because, thanks to its aftermath (I feel pain in my eyelashes, nails, and even some hair tips), I now understand what it feels like and what it doesn't when a human reaches over 100 years of age," the artist humorously remarked on Facebook.
The actor's message highlights the challenging health crisis in the country, where a surge in chikungunya cases, spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has alarmed the population.
The Cuban government has acknowledged the situation as an epidemic but admits that its official data on infections and fatalities remain unclear and incomplete.
The virus has been deadly, particularly affecting children and the elderly, amid a backdrop of hospital crises and medication shortages in Cuba.
On social media, Cubans from various provinces report extended queues at clinics and hospitals, with inadequate access to treatments. Many choose not to visit healthcare facilities and instead endure the illness alone at home, with limited resources and without medication.
"A disaster like this fuels the imagination and creativity of any actress or actor," García added, known for using humor to comment on issues affecting Cuban society. His post received thousands of supportive and empathetic responses from followers both in Cuba and abroad.
Understanding the Chikungunya Crisis in Cuba
What is the current chikungunya situation in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing a significant outbreak of chikungunya, with the government recognizing it as an epidemic. The disease, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, has spread widely, causing alarm among the population.
How is the healthcare system in Cuba coping with the epidemic?
The healthcare system in Cuba is under severe strain due to the chikungunya outbreak. There are reports of long lines at clinics and hospitals, inadequate access to treatments, and a general lack of resources to manage the crisis effectively.
Who is most at risk from the chikungunya virus in Cuba?
The chikungunya virus has been particularly deadly for children and the elderly in Cuba, who are more vulnerable due to the country's healthcare deficiencies and medication shortages.