U.S. Embassy Issues Health Alert for Travelers to Cuba Amid Chikungunya Outbreak
HAVANA, Cuba – the U.S. Embassy in Cuba has issued a health alert for U.S.citizens traveling to or currently in Cuba following a notice from the centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding an outbreak of chikungunya. The CDC has designated a Level 2 Travel Health Notice, recommending “enhanced precaution practices” due to the spread of the mosquito-borne illness.
Chikungunya is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, with symptoms typically appearing 3 to 7 days after exposure. These symptoms include fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, and skin rashes. While most patients recover within a week,the embassy warns that joint pain can persist for months or even years in certain specific cases.
The alert specifically advises pregnant women, particularly those in their third trimester, to reconsider travel to Cuba. Individuals considered high-risk – including older adults,newborns,and those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or heart disease – are also noted as being more vulnerable to severe complications. Currently, there is no specific treatment available for chikungunya.
Cuba has experienced a complex epidemiological situation for several months, with simultaneous circulation of multiple diseases including Hepatitis A, dengue, and chikungunya.
U.S. citizens needing assistance can contact the embassy at +(53) (7) 839-4100 (after hours: dial 1 then 0) or via email at acshavana@state.gov.
