Health Alert: Rise in Arboviruses and Digestive Diseases in Santiago de Cuba
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Very high temperatures, intense rainfall, poor water storage conditions, as well as the crisis in waste collection are increasing cases of arbovirosis and digestive diseases in Santiago de Cuba, where specialists warn of the health danger and appeal for citizens’ awareness.
Increasing Risk of Infectious Diseases
The climatic conditions of recent weeks, characterized by high temperatures and rain after a long dry period, have increased the risk of diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Oropouche fever, hepatitis A and typhoid fever, warned Dr. Yaimara Gutiérrez de la Cruz, director of the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology and Microbiology (CPHEM).
Arbovirus Circulation
The specialist specified that all three arboviruses are circulating in the province, although with different incidences. Dengue has active outbreaks in Palma Soriano and Santiago de Cuba, while the rest of the municipalities maintain a high risk due to the high mosquito infestation of Aedes aegypti, as reported by Sierra Maestra.
Contributing Factors
“The water deficit and the increase in deposits in poor condition, together with poor hygiene in courtyards and terraces, are creating a very negative scenario,” warned Gutiérrez, who underlined that without the active participation of the population, controlling these outbreaks will be challenging.
Key Takeaways
- High temperatures and rainfall are contributing to the spread of arboviruses and digestive diseases.
- Dengue outbreaks are currently active in Palma Soriano and Santiago de Cuba.
- Poor water storage and waste management are exacerbating the problem.
- public participation is crucial for effective disease control.