Cuba's Health Minister, José Ángel Portal Miranda, called on Thursday for maintaining high-quality services and staff dedication amidst the ongoing health crisis that has overwhelmed the nation's healthcare system.
Addressing the "national epidemiological situation," Minister Portal Miranda emphasized the need for heightened "clinical-epidemiological surveillance due to the circulation of various viruses" and the "monitoring of critically ill patients across different centers," as reported by the Cuban News Agency (ACN).
During a meeting at the ministry's headquarters, Portal Miranda, who has faced criticism for his low profile in recent weeks, stressed that effective medical care in any situation relies on the organization and problem-solving abilities of hospitals and clinics, as well as the responsiveness of emergency services in affected areas.
He also highlighted that maintaining essential services is crucial for health recovery in regions impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
The report further noted the minister's insistence on the importance of "uninterrupted public care" and his assessment of "institutions that continue to provide assistance through alternative means."
Health Emergency On Friday, authorities acknowledged that the country is experiencing a chikungunya epidemic, with the virus spreading widely across the national territory.
Dr. Francisco Durán García, the national director of Epidemiology, made the announcement during his appearance on the TV program Buenos Días, where he provided an extensive update on the complex epidemiological situation facing the country.
According to official data, 31,513 individuals have been diagnosed with suspected chikungunya, a disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the same vector responsible for dengue.
The virus is currently present in 14 provinces, 99 municipalities, and 164 health areas, which Durán described as showing "sustained epidemic behavior."
The official also reported 753 new suspected chikungunya cases and 847 confirmed dengue cases in the last day, highlighting the simultaneous presence of both diseases in the country.
"We are in a chikungunya epidemic," confirmed the specialist, explaining that this term is used when there is "an increase in the number of cases of a disease in a specific geographic area, sustained over time."
In contrast, he noted that dengue remains endemic, with continuous but stable presence.
Durán stated that 5,713 patients are hospitalized with suspected chikungunya, 5,607 of whom are at home and the remainder in hospital facilities.
Additionally, 95 individuals are in intensive care units, with 77 in serious condition and 18 in critical condition. Among the seriously ill patients, 63 are under 18 years old, and among the critically ill, 16 are children.
The director of Epidemiology cautioned that the Aedes aegypti mosquito infestation index remains high at 0.73, a figure he deemed a "high transmission risk."
FAQs About Cuba's Health Crisis and Epidemic
What is the current health crisis facing Cuba?
Cuba is currently dealing with a health crisis marked by a chikungunya epidemic and a sustained dengue presence, overwhelming the healthcare system.
How many people have been affected by chikungunya in Cuba?
As of the latest reports, 31,513 individuals in Cuba have been diagnosed with suspected chikungunya.
What measures are being taken to address the epidemic?
Efforts include enhancing clinical-epidemiological surveillance, monitoring critically ill patients, and maintaining essential services in affected areas.