The national director of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Francisco Durán García, reported this Wednesday at a press conference that active outbreaks of the dengue and Oropouche viruses persist in several regions of the country, with transmission in 12 and 15 provinces respectively.
This situation continues to worry health authorities, who urge the population to take extreme prevention and control measures.
Duran Garcia stressed the importance of reinforcing hygiene actions, especially the sanitation of environments, and avoiding the accumulation of water, since the intense rains of recent days have favored the proliferation of mosquitoes, key vectors in the spread of these diseases.
The specialist also highlighted that there are currently a considerable number of patients hospitalized for dengue, including some in serious or critical condition in intensive care units.
Despite the recent energy crisis that affected the country, the authorities assured that essential medical services were maintained, guaranteeing care for those affected.
Among the provinces most affected by dengue are Santiago de Cuba, Havana, Guantánamo, Camagüey, Pinar del Río and Las Tunas, which have the highest incidence rates.
Increase in cases and preventive measures against the threat of diseases in Cuba
Regarding the Oropouche virus, which presents less severe symptoms in most cases, around 80% of suspected patients are in home admission, as explained by the expert.
Durán García urgently called on the population to seek medical attention for symptoms such as headaches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea and high fever, since both viruses present similar manifestations. This is important due to the simultaneous circulation of both diseases, which complicates their diagnosis.
The official emphasized the need to pay special attention to children. They must be hospitalized if they have a fever to carry out the corresponding studies, as established by the Ministry of Public Health protocol.
Finally, the specialist mentioned that in the last week there has been an increase in diarrheal diseases, digestive symptoms and flu conditions, linked to intense heat and precipitation, which requires strict epidemiological surveillance throughout Cuba for the early detection of possible outbreaks. .
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Interview with Dr. Francisco Durán García, National Director of Hygiene and Epidemiology
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Durán. Can you provide an update on the current situation regarding dengue and Oropouche virus outbreaks in the country?
Dr. Durán: Thank you for having me. Unfortunately, we are still facing active outbreaks of both dengue and Oropouche viruses. As of now, dengue transmission is reported in 12 provinces, while Oropouche is affecting 15 provinces. This situation is concerning for all health authorities.
Interviewer: What measures are being recommended for the public to combat these outbreaks?
Dr. Durán: We are urging the public to take extreme prevention and control measures. This includes reinforcing hygiene actions—particularly the sanitation of living environments—and avoiding the accumulation of standing water. The recent heavy rains have created perfect conditions for mosquitoes, which are the primary vectors for these illnesses.
Interviewer: Could you provide some context on the impact this outbreak is having on healthcare facilities?
Dr. Durán: Absolutely. We currently have a considerable number of patients hospitalized due to dengue, with some in serious or critical condition requiring intensive care. It’s important to note that despite the challenges posed by the recent energy crisis affecting our country, essential medical services remain operational to ensure that these patients receive the necessary care.
Interviewer: That sounds daunting. What can everyday citizens do to help mitigate the spread of these diseases?
Dr. Durán: Citizens can play a crucial role. I encourage everyone to continuously check their surroundings for any stagnant water—such as in buckets, pots, or old tires—and properly manage waste to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Additionally, seeking medical attention at the first sign of symptoms is vital. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Durán. It’s clear that public awareness and action are critical in these challenging times.
Dr. Durán: Thank you for bringing attention to this matter. Together, we can make a difference in controlling these outbreaks.
Interview with Dr. Francisco Durán García, National Director of Hygiene and Epidemiology
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Durán. Can you provide an update on the current situation regarding the dengue and Oropouche virus outbreaks in the country?
Dr. Durán: Thank you for having me. Unfortunately, we are still facing active outbreaks of both dengue and Oropouche viruses. As of now, dengue transmission is reported in 12 provinces, while Oropouche is affecting 15 provinces. This situation is concerning for all health authorities.
Interviewer: What measures are being recommended for the public to combat these outbreaks?
Dr. Durán: We are urging the public to take extreme prevention and control measures. It is crucial to reinforce hygiene actions and ensure sanitation of environments. We advise against the accumulation of water, as the recent heavy rains have favored the proliferation of mosquitoes, the primary vectors for these diseases.
Interviewer: I’ve heard there are many patients hospitalized due to these outbreaks. Could you elaborate on that?
Dr. Durán: Yes, we currently have a significant number of patients hospitalized for dengue; some are in serious or critical condition in intensive care units. The severity of this situation cannot be overstated, particularly in the most affected provinces like Santiago de Cuba, Havana, Guantánamo, Camagüey, Pinar del Río, and Las Tunas.
Interviewer: Regarding the symptoms, what should the public be aware of when it comes to identifying these viruses?
Dr. Durán: Both dengue and Oropouche virus present similar symptoms, including headaches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and high fever. It is essential for individuals displaying these symptoms to seek medical attention urgently. Additionally, children experiencing a fever should be hospitalized for thorough evaluation, as per Ministry of Public Health protocols.
Interviewer: Are there any additional health concerns arising from the current climate situation?
Dr. Durán: Yes, we are also observing an uptick in diarrheal diseases, digestive symptoms, and flu-like conditions, likely linked to the intense heat and precipitation we’ve experienced. This situation necessitates strict epidemiological surveillance throughout the country for the early detection of possible outbreaks.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Durán, for your important insights and updates on this critical public health issue.
Dr. Durán: Thank you for the opportunity to share this vital information. It’s crucial for everyone to stay informed and take preventive measures seriously.