Health authorities in Matanzas have declared that the province is experiencing "epidemiological stability" in both arboviral diseases and acute respiratory infections. However, this statement has sparked considerable skepticism on social media platforms, particularly among doctors and citizens who continue to report long-lasting effects, shortages, and ongoing risks.
Dr. Andrés Lamas Acevedo, who leads the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology, stated that the area remains within a safety zone according to the provincial endemic channel, with no trace of the H3N2 virus detected. He emphasized that December through February typically sees a surge in respiratory infections, necessitating ongoing hospital and community monitoring.
While acknowledging a slight rise in acute diarrheal diseases compared to the previous week, he maintained that the indicators remain within "acceptable" limits. Dr. Lamas Acevedo stressed preventive measures, such as using masks in hospitals, boiling and chlorinating water, and ensuring food protection and hygiene, especially given recent hepatitis A outbreaks in some municipalities.
Regarding arboviral diseases, he noted a drop in reports, with only 108 cases this week compared to 151 the previous week. He warned that a resurgence is expected starting in March due to increased cases of mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue, urging readiness for vector control efforts.
Despite these assurances, Dr. Lamas Acevedo admitted setbacks in solid waste collection over the past two weeks and highlighted the dangers posed by liquid waste potentially contaminating drinking water.
Public Response and Criticism
The official declarations ignited a wave of critical comments online. One notably lengthy post by Lázaro E. Libre challenged the term "epidemiological stability," suggesting that what is portrayed as an achievement may actually reflect a depletion of susceptible reservoirs following widespread infection. Libre argued that a system can appear "stable" yet operate poorly, with accumulated damage and chronic health issues.
Other commentators agreed, noting that a decrease in cases is expected when a significant portion of the population has already fallen ill. Many pointed out that almost "no one was left uninfected," reporting ongoing health challenges, chronic pain, prolonged medication reliance, and significant economic burdens tied to acquiring medicine on the black market.
Critics also highlighted the disconnect between official rhetoric and everyday reality, mentioning overflowing trash, sewage leaks, lack of chlorine in pharmacies, and medicine shortages in hospitals. For many, the focus on individual prevention in this context seems unrealistic and out of touch with actual conditions.
Some comments mocked the official narrative, likening "stability" to an inevitable seasonal victory, while others emphasized concerns over the general decline in public health and the normalization of a healthcare system that responds inadequately and without resources.
Government's Narrative vs. Ground Reality
On Christmas Eve, President Miguel Díaz-Canel met with health experts at the Palace of the Revolution in Havana, where he was told that dengue and chikungunya cases are declining. Shortly after, Díaz-Canel declared on social media platform X that the Cuban government's strategies against the arboviral epidemic are yielding results. He highlighted mathematical models suggesting epidemic containment and stressed continued vigilance.
However, just weeks earlier, state media in Ciego de Ávila acknowledged that institutions were slow to respond to the current arboviral crisis, with neighborhoods already reporting cases. Failures in epidemiological monitoring and sanitation allowed the mosquito vector to spread unchecked. Holguín's health authorities also admitted shortcomings in mosquito prevention amid a challenging epidemiological landscape.
In August, residents of Máximo Gómez in Matanzas reported that over 70% of the population experienced fever, vomiting, and severe weakness, lacking access to medicine and medical care. Yet, the government downplayed the alerts for weeks, attacking activists and independent media for allegedly lying and distorting reality.
Official outlets like Radio 26 in Matanzas attempted to discredit journalist Yirmara Torres, who exposed the health crisis and asserted that "there are no deaths, but there are," referring to the government's concealment of epidemic-related fatalities. The Ministry of Public Health long denied any deaths linked to the outbreak.
Key Questions on Matanzas' Health Situation
What is the current health status in Matanzas according to authorities?
Authorities claim that Matanzas has achieved "epidemiological stability" in arboviral diseases and acute respiratory infections, although this assertion is being questioned by residents.
Why are residents skeptical about the claim of stability?
Residents are skeptical because they continue to experience lasting health effects, shortages, and risks, which contradict the optimistic reports from officials.
How has the government responded to criticisms about the health situation?
The government has downplayed the situation, attacking independent media and activists while claiming success in managing the epidemic.