Dr. Anaelis Santana Álvarez, the head of the Eliseo Noel Caamaño Provincial Pediatric Hospital in Matanzas, has strongly refuted claims that the facility is on the brink of collapse. She assured that the hospital is functioning normally, with an occupancy rate that does not exceed 90% of its capacity.
In a statement to the Girón newspaper, Santana Álvarez clarified that the hospital, equipped with 209 beds, is currently operating with only 178. This reduction is not due to a health crisis but is a result of administrative decisions and the ongoing energy crisis in Cuba. The Gastroenterology Ward has been repurposed for the Provincial Blood Bank due to electrical issues, while the Orthopedic Ward is undergoing structural maintenance.
"There is a constant flow in the institution with more discharges than admissions," she noted.
Current Health Situation in Matanzas
Regarding the health landscape, Dr. Santana Álvarez dismissed any notion of an epidemic in Matanzas, though she acknowledged the presence of arboviral diseases and around twenty respiratory viruses.
"We are not in an epidemic situation. Arboviral diseases are circulating as seasonal viruses, but there is no significant surge. Less than half of the hospitalized children are due to these causes," she asserted.
"As for respiratory illnesses, which typically become a concern this time of year, about twenty different viruses are circulating. This service has remained quite full, which is normal during these months when colds, pneumonia, and ear infections are more prevalent," she elaborated.
Background of Health Challenges
The denial comes amid a complex epidemiological context, as acknowledged by health officials themselves. Earlier this month, Yamira López, the provincial health director, warned that October and November represent the peak of epidemiological challenges in the province, stating, "this is not a calm period."
Nationally, the Ministry of Public Health recognized an increase in respiratory infections, diarrhea, hepatitis, and arboviral diseases at the end of September. The Deputy Minister, Carilda Peña García, attributed this to "limitations in environmental sanitation systems, water treatment, and waste collection."
Despite official reassurances, the recent history of the Eliseo Noel Caamaño hospital provides reasons for public concern. In October 2025, the hospital reached 100% bed occupancy during simultaneous outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya, and oropouche, necessitating the opening of an annex at the Matanzas University of Medical Sciences.
In February of this year, a video circulated on social media showcasing unsanitary conditions within the facility. Additionally, in May, an improvised landfill was reported a block away from the hospital, posing risks of mosquito and rodent infestations.
Understanding the Healthcare Dynamics in Matanzas
What is the current operational status of the Pediatric Hospital in Matanzas?
The Pediatric Hospital in Matanzas is operating normally with an occupancy rate below 90% and is not experiencing any collapse.
Are there any epidemics currently affecting Matanzas?
No epidemic has been reported in Matanzas, although there are arboviral diseases and several respiratory viruses present.
What previous issues has the hospital in Matanzas faced?
The hospital previously faced a full occupancy crisis during 2025 due to dengue and other outbreaks and has dealt with unsanitary conditions and local waste management issues in 2023.