Amidst the chikungunya outbreak and the numerous dengue cases plaguing Cuba, Dr. Francisco Durán García, the National Director of Epidemiology at the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), has clarified that no cases of Zika have been reported in the country. However, he acknowledged the potential conditions for its emergence.
Speaking on the Buenos Días program, the epidemiologist emphasized that the Zika virus is not currently circulating in Cuba. Yet, he cautioned that the risk of transmission persists due to the widespread presence of the Aedes aegypti mosquito across the island.
"We do not have any diagnosed cases of Zika, but with the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes present, the possibility of transmission remains," Durán stated, underscoring that the health system is actively monitoring any potential cases.
Chikungunya and Dengue: Immediate Health Threats
The expert reiterated that chikungunya and dengue are currently the most significant health threats, with thousands of cases reported in recent weeks and transmission occurring in 14 provinces.
"We are in a chikungunya epidemic," he reminded, highlighting the continuous rise in infections and the high mosquito infestation rate.
Other Viruses Under Surveillance
Durán's remarks follow his previous dismissal of the presence of the West Nile Virus (WNV) in Cuba. "No cases have been diagnosed," he stated on Wednesday's program.
He also assured that the laboratories at the Institute of Tropical Medicine "are processing hundreds of samples, and none have tested positive" for either the West Nile Virus or Zika, despite the latter's presence in the Caribbean and Central America.
Furthermore, no Oropouche virus cases have been detected, with none reported since September.
Durán described the West Nile Virus as a disease with "minor symptoms" compared to chikungunya.
Complex Epidemiological Situation
On Friday, the official acknowledged that Cuba's epidemiological situation is highly challenging due to the severe infestation levels and the lack of health resources to combat the chikungunya epidemic.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zika and Other Viruses in Cuba
Are there any cases of Zika in Cuba?
No, according to Dr. Francisco Durán García, no Zika cases have been reported in Cuba, although conditions for its appearance exist.
What are the current health threats in Cuba?
Chikungunya and dengue are the most pressing health threats, with thousands of cases reported in the past weeks.
How does the presence of Aedes aegypti affect the spread of these viruses?
The Aedes aegypti mosquito is a vector for viruses like Zika and dengue, making the risk of transmission a concern across Cuba.