Cuba is undergoing a severe socio-economic crisis exacerbated by natural disasters and health epidemics. Recent hurricanes and earthquakes have led to widespread destruction, including water shortages and healthcare disruptions. The ongoing health threats, such as outbreaks of Dengue and Oropouche virus disease, compound the situation. PAHO is mobilizing resources to support the Cuban healthcare system and ensure continuity of medical services.
Cuba is currently grappling with a profound socio-economic crisis that is compounded by a series of catastrophic events. For several years, the nation has faced significant challenges such as inflation, shortages of medication and supplies, and a diminution of its healthcare workforce, all of which have severely impacted public health and wellbeing. In addition to this persistent crisis, the situation has escalated dramatically due to an extraordinary energy emergency and pressing public health issues brought about by recent disasters.
The island has recently endured extensive destruction from two hurricanes—Oscar (Category 1) and Rafael (Category 3)—and two earthquakes measuring 5.9 and 6.8 on the Richter scale. These occurrences have exacerbated existing socioeconomic challenges by causing widespread flooding and disrupting essential services, including access to water and healthcare. Seven provinces, particularly Artemisa (83% affected) and Havana (80% affected), report significant water shortages.
Power outages and substantial infrastructure damage in regions such as Mayabeque, Guantánamo, and Granma further complicate emergency response efforts following these disasters. This ongoing crisis is compounded by health epidemics, including Dengue and Oropouche, which increase the risk of communicable diseases due to the extensive flooding and lack of clean water and hygiene in temporary shelters.
Despite the Cuban health system’s resilience in maintaining certain services, it faces dire shortages of laboratory reagents, antibiotics, and essential supplies necessary for effective healthcare delivery. The Ministry of Public Health reported a worrisome outbreak of Oropouche virus disease since late 2023, with updates showing over 23,639 suspected cases and 626 confirmed cases, including serious conditions such as Guillain-Barré syndrome and encephalitis.
To address these pressing health challenges, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is actively supporting Cuba’s health ministry and national authorities by ensuring the continuation of healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations. Collaborative efforts with the European Union and Direct Relief have enabled PAHO to deliver over four tons of crucial medical supplies, including protective equipment and operational resources to severely impacted regions.
Additionally, PAHO has made significant contributions to tackling the ongoing Oropouche outbreak through the provision of diagnostic reagents and training for Cuban laboratory professionals in molecular detection methods. A mission in September 2024 brought regional experts to assess and strategize on control efforts for this ongoing health crisis.
In summary, Cuba is facing a multi-faceted crisis characterized by a deteriorating socio-economic environment, compounded by recent natural disasters that have intensified existing health challenges. The health system struggles with resource shortages amid rising communicable disease risks, necessitating robust responses, such as those orchestrated by PAHO. Support from international partners is critical to restoring health services and mitigating the impact of this unprecedented emergency.
Original Source: www.paho.org
