Cuba is undergoing a severe socio-economic crisis compounded by natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes, leading to serious public health challenges. The healthcare system is strained by shortages, with outbreaks of diseases like Oropouche and Dengue posing significant risks. PAHO and other organizations are actively providing humanitarian support and medical supplies to address these pressing needs.
Cuba is currently facing a severe socio-economic crisis that has been deteriorating over the years. Factors contributing to this situation include inflation, medication shortages, and a notable increase in the migration of healthcare professionals, all of which have heavily impacted the healthcare system and overall public health outcomes in the country.
Recently, the crisis has escalated due to an unprecedented confluence of disasters. Over a short period, the island experienced two hurricanes, Oscar (Category 1) and Rafael (Category 3), as well as two significant earthquakes registering magnitudes of 5.9 and 6.8. These calamities have resulted in widespread destruction, flooding, and interruption of essential services, further complicating the existing socioeconomic crisis.
Seven provinces in Cuba are grappling with severe water shortages, particularly Artemisa and Havana, suffering at 83% and 80% capacity, respectively. Compounding the crisis, electrical outages and infrastructure damage in areas such as Mayabeque, Guantánamo, and Granma hinder emergency response and recovery operations in the affected regions.
The ongoing situations of Dengue and Oropouche epidemics add to the public health challenges as prolonged flooding, lack of clean water, and inadequate hygiene in shelters elevate the risk of communicable diseases. This scenario could lead to outbreaks of various diseases, including gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, alongside vector-borne illnesses.
Despite the Cuban health system’s attempts to maintain its services with dwindling resources, there is a critical shortage of laboratory reagents, diagnostic tools, antibiotics, and essential medical supplies. Reports indicate that the Oropouche virus is spreading across South America and the Caribbean, impacting regions previously unaffected. As of January 30, 2025, Cuba documented 23,639 suspected cases of Oropouche, with 626 confirmed cases, necessitating enhanced epidemiological measures.
In response to these crises, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has been working to ensure continued healthcare access for vulnerable populations in collaboration with Cuban authorities and other UN agencies. Support from organizations such as Direct Relief, the European Union, and the UN Central Emergency Response Fund has enabled PAHO to supply over four tons of essential healthcare materials to critical medical facilities.
Efforts to combat the Oropouche outbreak have also been prioritized, with PAHO providing reagents for viral testing and training for lab professionals on detection and analysis methods. A PAHO mission in September 2024 aimed to evaluate the ongoing Oropouche outbreak, identify contributing factors, and develop strategies to enhance public health responses.
Cuba faces a multifaceted crisis involving economic downturns and natural disasters that have exacerbated public health issues. With the healthcare system under strain from resource shortages and epidemic outbreaks, concerted efforts from organizations like PAHO are essential for maintaining healthcare services and improving disease surveillance. The situation necessitates a robust response strategy to address both immediate health needs and longer-term solutions to stabilize the socio-economic landscape.
Original Source: www.paho.org
