Cuban health authorities announced on Wednesday the launch of a vaccination program against yellow fever, aimed at "international travelers with a high risk of exposure to the virus."
A statement from the General Directorate of Public Health in Santiago de Cuba, published by the newspaper Sierra Maestra, indicates that the decision to vaccinate is based on lists from the World Health Organization identifying countries where the yellow fever virus is active.
Although Cuba has not recorded transmission of this disease since 1904, the health authorities "have decided to protect citizens traveling to at-risk areas," the statement says.
The document also clarifies that, for now, Cuban travelers heading to Nicaragua via WINGO, COPA, and AVIANCA airlines are not required to present the international vaccination certificate against yellow fever.
This measure has been coordinated by the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology and the International Health Control Department of the province, the statement emphasizes.
Yellow fever is an acute viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, characterized by fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and in severe cases, jaundice and hemorrhagic complications. The virus is endemic in tropical regions of Africa and the Americas.
The statement from the Cuban regime does not mention that the island is experiencing a delicate epidemiological situation with the circulation of various mosquito-borne viruses, such as dengue and Oropouche fever.
Amid the ongoing health crisis on the island, the Oropouche virus exacerbates the situation, as it is now present in all provinces of Cuba.
Additionally, cases of Oropouche virus imported into Europe in recent weeks through travelers, mostly from Cuba, are on the rise, with at least 19 cases detected, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
In the latest information on the behavior of this disease, the ECDC confirmed that the number of imported Oropouche virus cases in Spain has risen to 12 between June and July, all related to travel to Cuba or Brazil, as reported by the EFE agency.
FAQs on Yellow Fever Vaccination and Oropouche Virus in Cuba
In light of the recent announcement of yellow fever vaccinations for tourists in Santiago de Cuba and the ongoing concerns surrounding the Oropouche virus, here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify the situation.
Why is Cuba starting a yellow fever vaccination program for tourists?
Cuban health authorities are initiating this program to protect international travelers who may be at high risk of exposure to the yellow fever virus, following recommendations from the World Health Organization.
Is yellow fever currently a threat in Cuba?
No, Cuba has not reported any transmission of yellow fever since 1904. The vaccination program is a preventive measure for travelers visiting areas where the virus is active.
Are Cuban travelers required to have a yellow fever vaccination certificate?
Currently, Cuban travelers heading to Nicaragua via WINGO, COPA, and AVIANCA airlines are not required to present an international yellow fever vaccination certificate.
What other mosquito-borne viruses are a concern in Cuba?
Cuba is facing a delicate epidemiological situation with the circulation of dengue and Oropouche fever, both of which are also transmitted by mosquitoes.
How has the Oropouche virus impacted Europe recently?
There has been an increase in Oropouche virus cases imported into Europe, particularly Spain, with 12 cases reported between June and July, all linked to travel to Cuba or Brazil.