Cuban comedian Ulises Toirac has voiced his disapproval over the Cuban government's belated acknowledgment of the arbovirus epidemic, following months of the nation being overwhelmed by dengue, chikungunya, and other mosquito-borne illnesses.
Through a Facebook post, Toirac expressed his frustration that the authorities have only now recognized the epidemic, at a point when the situation has spiraled out of control and thousands of Cubans are afflicted nationwide.
"It was only two or three days ago that the term 'arbovirus epidemic' was first used in Cuba, even though people have been dropping like flies for the past three months in areas like Matanzas," Toirac remarked. Recently, he humorously mentioned being "in vogue" by contracting chikungunya.
He described the regime's response as an act of "indifference," criticizing their weeks-long denial of an obvious widespread outbreak that the public was already aware of.
"The health authorities have squandered valuable time denying a situation that is now beyond control," he noted.
Ideal Conditions for Mosquitoes
The comedian highlighted that, unlike the coronavirus, arboviruses are spread by mosquitoes, and Cuba's poor sanitation and garbage accumulation provide a perfect breeding ground for these insects.
"The country is essentially a paradise for these bugs. With such a high mosquito population, halting the spread is nearly impossible. No repellent is 100% effective. There's always one pesky mosquito that bites," he joked.
Lack of Public Information
Toirac also condemned the lack of information and guidance provided to the population, whom he sees as victims of the regime's health mismanagement.
"Without proper guidance, the public has suffered all the consequences, including death. This is another level of indifference," he concluded.
The comedian's statement is part of the mounting social discontent regarding the country's epidemiological crisis, following months of government silence and lack of transparency.
In recent days, doctors, activists, and citizens have reported hospital collapses and a shortage of resources to deal with an epidemic the government attempted to conceal.
Understanding the Arbovirus Crisis in Cuba
What are arboviruses?
Arboviruses are a group of viruses transmitted by arthropods, such as mosquitoes. They include diseases like dengue and chikungunya.
Why is Cuba particularly vulnerable to arboviruses?
Cuba's vulnerability is due to poor sanitation and waste management, which create ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.
How has the Cuban government responded to the epidemic?
The government has been criticized for delaying its acknowledgment of the epidemic and for a lack of transparency and resources to combat it.