Health authorities in Las Tunas have raised alarms due to a significant increase in cases of fever and diarrheal diseases in the province. This situation may be linked to the spread of the Oropouche virus, known to be transmitted through the bite of Culex mosquitoes. Viviana Gutiérrez Rodríguez, the local Health Director, explained during a work meeting that while no samples have confirmed the presence of Oropouche in the population of Las Tunas, the situation remains concerning, according to local news source Periódico 26.
"There are no samples confirming the existence of Oropouche in the population of Las Tunas. However, since June 20, in the municipality of Colombia, the locality of San José has shown a large percentage of its population with fever and diarrheal symptoms, which could indicate the presence of the disease," noted Gutiérrez Rodríguez.
Studies have been sent to the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Havana, as preliminary results were negative for dengue. "We must remain vigilant against the virus's spread across Cuba. It can arrive here at any moment," she added.
Sanitation Efforts and Challenges
In the Bartle community, located in the main municipality and with a population of 15,000, there has also been a worrying increase in febrile syndromes. "Sanitation actions have been carried out, and although cases have decreased in recent weeks, that area has a high percentage of leaking pits," explained Gutiérrez Rodríguez.
One of the major challenges facing the territory is the collection of solid waste, especially during the rainy season, which poses a potential risk for increased infection hotspots. Cuban authorities acknowledged on Thursday that they lack the fuel needed to fumigate against mosquitoes that transmit dengue and Oropouche.
Cuba is facing a new health alert due to the rise in both diseases in various territories. The Oropouche virus has been confirmed in nine provinces and 23 municipalities. Municipalities in Matanzas, Mayabeque, Villa Clara, Sancti Spíritus, Ciego de Ávila, Holguín, Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, and Cienfuegos have confirmed the virus's presence based on samples studied at the national reference laboratory of the Pedro Kourí Institute of Tropical Medicine (IPK).
FAQs on the Fever and Diarrhea Outbreak in Las Tunas
As concerns rise over the recent outbreak of fever and diarrhea in Las Tunas, it's important to address some common questions and provide clear answers to keep the public informed.
What is causing the rise in fever and diarrhea cases in Las Tunas?
The increase in fever and diarrhea cases in Las Tunas may be linked to the spread of the Oropouche virus, which is transmitted through Culex mosquito bites.
Has the Oropouche virus been confirmed in Las Tunas?
No, there are currently no confirmed samples of the Oropouche virus in the population of Las Tunas. However, the situation remains concerning due to the symptoms observed.
What measures are being taken to combat the outbreak?
Sanitation actions have been implemented, including the collection of solid waste and addressing leaking pits. However, there is a lack of fuel for fumigation against mosquitoes.
Which other areas in Cuba are affected by the Oropouche virus?
The Oropouche virus has been confirmed in nine provinces and 23 municipalities, including Matanzas, Mayabeque, Villa Clara, Sancti Spíritus, Ciego de Ávila, Holguín, Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, and Cienfuegos.