On Monday afternoon, Héctor Eduardo Tamayo Burgos, a 17-year-old who passed away due to a late-diagnosed brain infection, was laid to rest in Santiago de Cuba. A poignant video shared by journalist Yosmany Mayeta captured the moment when the teenager's remains, housed in a white coffin, were carried from his home to the funeral car by family and friends.
The young man, a high school junior, lived with his father in the Luis Dagnes neighborhood within the Altamira district, as his mother is currently incarcerated. He had been hospitalized for over three weeks at the Dr. Antonio María Béguez César Children's Hospital, commonly referred to as "La Colonia."
Tamayo Burgos was initially admitted to a general ward due to a shortage of intensive care beds. Eventually, he was transferred to the ICU, where he remained in a vegetative state, reliant on oxygen and other life-support systems. The family has criticized the hospital for the delayed diagnosis of the brain infection, which ultimately claimed the young man's life.
Hundreds of online users have expressed their sorrow over the death of the teenager, who was affectionately known as "Tito" among his close ones. Kirenia Burgos, the boy's mother, was granted special permission to leave prison temporarily to say her final goodbye to her son.
The tragic incident occurred amidst a severe health crisis in Santiago de Cuba. The region is currently grappling with the circulation of four viruses: dengue, influenza, oropouche, and SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, as confirmed by official sources last Wednesday.
Understanding the Health Crisis in Santiago de Cuba
This section addresses the pressing questions surrounding the recent health crisis in Santiago de Cuba, including the tragic death of Héctor Eduardo Tamayo Burgos and the viral outbreaks affecting the region.
What caused the death of Héctor Eduardo Tamayo Burgos?
Héctor Eduardo Tamayo Burgos died due to a brain infection that was diagnosed too late. He spent over three weeks in the hospital before passing away.
Where was Héctor Eduardo Tamayo Burgos hospitalized?
He was hospitalized at the Dr. Antonio María Béguez César Children's Hospital, also known as "La Colonia," in Santiago de Cuba.
What viruses are currently circulating in Santiago de Cuba?
Santiago de Cuba is facing an epidemiological crisis with the circulation of dengue, influenza, oropouche, and SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.