Dr. Francisco Durán, a Cuban epidemiologist, announced on Thursday that the challenges posed by dengue fever and Oropouche virus remain unresolved in Cuba. He summarized the situation by saying, "Nothing has changed." During his update on the island's epidemiological status, the expert highlighted that these arboviral diseases continue to be active in a country where litter clogs the streets and resources for mosquito control are scarce.
The incidence of dengue fever has risen, now affecting 14 provinces compared to 13 previously. At least 14 provinces, 56 municipalities, and 51 healthcare areas are currently experiencing active transmission, according to Durán. He noted that dengue is causing a significant number of cases, many of which are severe or critical, with patients being treated in intensive care units.
This disease, while potentially fatal, can be prevented with proper hydration, emphasizing the need for early medical attention. The most affected provinces, Santiago de Cuba and Havana, face the most complex situations with the circulation of three dengue virus serotypes: 3, 4, and 2. This means individuals can fall ill multiple times within a short period.
In contrast, the Oropouche virus has been identified across all 15 provinces, impacting 110 municipalities. Durán pointed out that the provinces with the highest number of cases are Havana, Santiago de Cuba, and Pinar del Río.