In a scenario that is all too common in Cuban hospitals, the León Cuervo Rubio Surgical Clinic in Pinar del Río has become infested with rats, with no apparent effort being made to eradicate them. A video shared on Facebook by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada shows numerous rodents scampering around what appears to be an inner courtyard of the facility, alarmingly close to patient rooms and other areas.
The footage was captured in broad daylight, suggesting a significant infestation since rats are typically nocturnal creatures. "Where are the Hygiene and Epidemiology officials?" a young woman questioned in the comments section of the post. "Canel and his cronies," remarked a resident from Santiago, pointing fingers at the authorities.
"Considering how dangerous these creatures are, they're roaming around like they own the place. No poison, no traps, not even a stray cat; folks, something to stop this plague, please..." pleaded another concerned woman. A self-employed individual sarcastically commented, "If they're out during the day, imagine the night; we need the Pied Piper."
Reports of rats, cockroaches, flies, and bedbugs in Cuban hospitals are frequently appearing online, highlighting the ongoing crisis within the public health system. Less than a month ago, a relative of a patient recorded a video at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, illustrating the prevalence of bedbugs and cockroaches. "On top of the patients' beds," the woman stated. "Here with my German friends... They're having a meeting today," she sarcastically added in another part of the video.
In May 2023, a pregnant woman admitted to give birth at the Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas General Hospital, also in Santiago, voiced her frustration over the deplorable conditions of the facility. "This place is more of a dump than a hospital; the cockroaches want to carry you away, the bathrooms are disgraceful, and the lab staff's attitude is terrible. Why continue complaining, when no matter where you voice it, this will persist and worsen," lamented Yendis Martínez Aroche, desperate to return home as soon as possible.
Key Issues in Cuban Hospital Sanitation
What evidence is there of rats in Cuban hospitals?
A video shared by journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada shows numerous rats running around the inner courtyard of the León Cuervo Rubio Surgical Clinic in Pinar del Río.
How do people react to the sanitation issues in hospitals?
Comments on social media reflect frustration and concern, with individuals questioning the absence of hygiene officials and calling for measures to address the rat infestation.
What are some other sanitation problems reported in Cuban hospitals?
In addition to rats, there have been reports of bedbugs, cockroaches, flies, and poor sanitary conditions in various Cuban hospitals.