A Cuban doctor asserts that with the current hygienic and sanitary conditions in the country, eradicating the Oropouche virus is impossible. Dr. Roberto Serrano, from Songo La Maya, Santiago de Cuba, granted an interview to the independent portal CubaNet, in which he emphasized that the virus is present throughout the national territory due to widespread issues such as sewage leaks, street garbage, and lack of fumigation.
"Conditions worsen every day, and almost all diseases become endemic. Dengue appeared and we have never been able to eradicate it because there are simply more mosquitoes every day. There is no way to eradicate it," Serrano asserted.
Serrano highlighted that Oropouche patients frequently relapse, which is directly linked to the sanitary crisis and the lack of medications. "When sanitary conditions do not change, when everything remains the same, patients relapse, they have recurrences... Some patients report around six or seven relapses, which is uncommon, for example, in dengue or other types of viruses," he explained.
Regarding the possibility of deaths due to Oropouche, the doctor stated that fatalities have occurred from complications related to the virus. He clarified that while the virus infection is not a direct cause of death, it can be a secondary cause, expressing particular concern for patients with weakened immune systems due to the varied symptoms and lack of treatments.
"This type of virus does not directly cause death, but it can indirectly lead to it. Here in Cuba, for example, many patients are subjected to extreme conditions regarding nutrition, medication shortages, and overall deprivation," he detailed.
Finally, Serrano addressed the scarcity of medications in pharmacies and health institutions, which is particularly severe for a disease whose treatment is symptom-dependent. "When you don't have the basics to combat any type of illness, you can't make progress," he reaffirmed.
Oropouche Virus and Cuba's Health Crisis: Key Questions and Answers
Given the critical health situation described by Dr. Serrano, several questions arise regarding the impact of the Oropouche virus and the broader implications for the Cuban healthcare system. Here, we address some of the most pressing inquiries.
What are the primary reasons for the persistence of the Oropouche virus in Cuba?
The primary reasons include widespread issues such as sewage leaks, garbage accumulation in streets, and a lack of fumigation, leading to worsening sanitary conditions and an increase in disease vectors like mosquitoes.
Why do Oropouche patients in Cuba experience frequent relapses?
Frequent relapses are attributed to the ongoing sanitary crisis and the lack of medications. Without changes in sanitary conditions, patients continue to relapse and experience recurrences.
Can the Oropouche virus directly cause death?
No, the Oropouche virus does not directly cause death. However, it can indirectly lead to fatalities, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems due to malnutrition and lack of access to medications.