Cuba Faces Renewed Arbovirus Surge Amidst mosquito Infestation & Resource Challenges
HAVANA – Cuba is experiencing a significant resurgence of arboviral diseases – dengue and chikungunya – fueled by a “very high” infestation of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and compounded by ongoing supply shortages and sanitation issues, health officials warn. The outbreak is placing a particular strain on vulnerable populations, including children and pregnant women.
The escalating situation comes as the country grapples wiht the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, wich exacerbated existing water supply problems in several provinces. These disruptions are leading to increased reliance on home water storage, creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes alongside deficiencies in waste management and sanitation. As of last week, authorities reported 21,681 accumulated cases of chikungunya. Data from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) indicates 9,602 confirmed dengue cases, representing an incidence rate of 87.79 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The Ministry of Health estimates that approximately 30% of the Cuban population has been infected with either dengue or chikungunya during this outbreak.
“It is key to keep children hydrated, since gastrointestinal symptoms can cause hazardous dehydration,” cautioned Montesino Felipe, highlighting the critical need for basic preventative care. The challenge lies in securing adequate supplies amidst the current logistical difficulties. María Guadalupe Guzmán Tirado, director of the Research, Diagnostic and Reference Center of the Pedro Kourí Institute (IPK), emphasized the risk posed by the proliferation of water tanks combined with “inadequate management of solid waste and deficiencies in sanitation.”
Pregnant women are also identified as a high-risk group, requiring urgent hospitalization for diagnosis and treatment, especially those with pre-existing conditions like hypertension or diabetes. “You can’t make a diagnosis at home. That has to be done by the hospital,” stated Diana Couto Núñez, president of the Cuban Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics, warning of possibly serious complications.
The situation underscores the ongoing public health challenges facing Cuba, where access to resources and adequate sanitation remain critical factors in controlling the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses. Further data and analysis on dengue are available from the Pan American health Organization and previous reporting on the outbreak can be found here.
