The close of 2024 finds Cuba grappling with a persistent epidemiological landscape dominated by the same mosquito-borne illnesses that plagued the nation throughout the year: dengue and Oropouche. This was confirmed by Dr. Francisco Durán García, the National Director of Epidemiology at the Ministry of Public Health, during a televised address.
Dr. Durán highlighted that dengue is actively spreading in 13 provinces, with a significant number of patients hospitalized. Six cases have been reported as severe, concentrated in two provinces. Meanwhile, Oropouche is impacting 15 provinces, albeit with less severity due to milder symptoms, with most cases managed at home, according to the specialist on the mid-day news broadcast.
“The clinical presentation of dengue and Oropouche is quite similar, which might lead to a false sense of security among people thinking it's Oropouche, when it could actually be dengue, which can become severe,” cautioned the epidemiologist. He urged individuals to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis.
Despite the absence of zika, chikungunya, or yellow fever cases in Cuba, the Aedes aegypti mosquito remains the primary vector for these diseases. This underscores the need to intensify sanitation and vector-control measures. “We are aware of the issues with garbage collection, but individuals must take responsibility for reducing risks in their surroundings,” Durán added.
Health Precautions Amidst Year-End Celebrations
Durán also stressed the importance of taking precautions with food and water, especially during year-end festivities, to prevent an increase in diarrhea cases. Respiratory illnesses, while present, are not at their peak.
He mentioned a news update regarding a febrile illness in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, whose cause remains unidentified. Although the World Health Organization has not officially recognized this disease or its cause, the outbreak is real and poses a high mortality risk, particularly among children. However, he assured that Cuba is not facing complexities related to this issue and maintains strict border surveillance to detect any febrile cases.
Challenges Facing Cuba's Health System
The end of 2024 paints a picture of an overburdened health system struggling to manage preventable diseases, while structural challenges like inadequate waste collection and sanitation perpetuate a vicious cycle hindering epidemiological progress.
In November, Cuban health authorities reported a "slight decrease" in dengue and Oropouche cases, although both diseases continued to significantly affect the population, especially in the eastern regions of the country. In October, the Ministry of Public Health reported over 17,000 suspected dengue cases for the year, many of which required intensive care unit hospitalization.
In September, there were 12,000 suspected cases of Oropouche, a disease first identified in Cuba in May, now widespread across the island, partly due to insufficient vector and sanitation control efforts.
Understanding the Dengue and Oropouche Situation in Cuba
What are the symptoms of Dengue and Oropouche?
Both dengue and Oropouche present similar symptoms, including fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, and rash. However, dengue can lead to severe complications and requires medical attention.
How many provinces in Cuba are affected by Dengue and Oropouche?
Dengue is affecting 13 provinces, while Oropouche has been reported in 15 provinces across Cuba.
What measures are being recommended to control these outbreaks?
Health officials emphasize the importance of sanitation, reducing mosquito breeding sites, and seeking medical care for proper diagnosis. Individuals are urged to manage their environments to minimize risks.