For months, stores in Havana have stocked mosquito protection products priced in dollars, while epidemics have swept across the nation. In a belated response, the Cuban regime has started producing natural repellents in Granma province just as the spread of arboviruses has escalated into a nationwide health crisis.
The Medilip Pharmaceutical Laboratory, in collaboration with the Granma Pharmacy and Optics Company, has commenced manufacturing a natural repellent aimed at "protecting the public and supporting vector control efforts," according to a Facebook post by state-run CNC TV Granma.
This product is touted as "100% natural," made with Neem tincture and Lemon Grass, and is intended for direct skin application.
However, authorities have advised against its use on children under three years old.
Though the official statement does not disclose the product's price, images show two bottle sizes, one priced at 40 pesos and the other at 200 pesos.
While the initiative is framed as a preventive measure—and it is indeed timely, especially for those on tight budgets—it comes amid one of the worst epidemiological crises Cuba has faced in decades. The island is grappling with simultaneous outbreaks of viruses like dengue, chikungunya, and oropouche.
The announcement follows closely on the heels of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel's acknowledgment of the outbreak's scale, affecting 30 percent of the Cuban population, with hospitals overwhelmed and medicine shortages rampant.
Both Cuban experts and citizens, inside and outside the island, have criticized the government's slow response in implementing effective measures after months of reports on rising cases and mosquito infestations in areas where fumigation has been inadequate or non-existent.
The release of this repellent occurs without clear information about its availability or whether this effort will extend to other provinces, underscoring the perception of an insufficient health response by the regime.
Understanding the Cuban Arbovirus Health Crisis
What are the main arboviruses affecting Cuba currently?
Cuba is currently experiencing outbreaks of dengue, chikungunya, and oropouche viruses.
How has the Cuban government responded to the arbovirus crisis?
The Cuban government has initiated the production of natural repellents, although the response has been criticized for being delayed and insufficient.
What are the ingredients in the new natural repellent produced in Cuba?
The repellent is made from Neem tincture and Lemon Grass.