BTN News: Camagüey is facing a big problem with dengue and Oropouche fever viruses. There are also more mosquitoes, which spread these diseases. Dr. Néstor Navarro Vega, the Deputy Director of Epidemiology at the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology, talked to the local newspaper, Adelante. He said that even though they are trying to control the situation, there are serious warning signs. This report explains the current health situation, what is being done to fight these diseases, and important information about Oropouche fever.
Dengue Virus Is Spreading Fast in Many Areas of Camagüey
Dr. Navarro Vega said there is a high rate of dengue in Santa Cruz del Sur. Also, Esmeralda and Florida have many cases, especially in the north of Florida. In Minas, there are more people with fever. In the city of Camagüey, the virus is present in all nine areas, but it has not reached a high transmission level yet.
Oropouche Fever Cases Are Increasing in Several Municipalities
Camagüey is also seeing more Oropouche fever cases. There are 79 suspected and 76 confirmed patients. Dr. Navarro Vega explained that, like other mosquito-borne diseases, Oropouche fever can be treated in hospitals or at home. The confirmed cases are mostly in Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, Florida, Camagüey, Minas, and Vertientes.
Summer Weather Makes the Situation Worse by Increasing Mosquito Populations
The summer season makes the problem worse. High temperatures make the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which spreads dengue, grow faster. Rainfall and bad environmental conditions make it harder to control mosquitoes. The Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito, which spreads Oropouche fever, can easily get into homes and is hard to control without good environmental practices.
Many Actions Are Being Taken to Fight These Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Health authorities in Camagüey are doing many things to stop the spread of these diseases. Temporary groups made up of different organizations and the health system are working hard. They are looking into cases and taking preventive actions where needed.
One important strategy is to isolate people with fever by focusing on the five houses around them, not the whole block or town. The focus for fumigation is on these isolated cases and areas at risk.
Oropouche Fever Is Spreading Nationwide, and Health Authorities Are Taking Action
Since it was first found in Santiago de Cuba in May, Oropouche fever has spread all over the country. Dengue is already common on the island and gets worse during rainy and hot seasons. The Ministry of Public Health has activated its health systems and urged people to listen to official information, avoid self-medicating, and not take antibiotics without a doctor’s advice.
Public Awareness and Cleanliness Are Key to Fighting the Spread of These Diseases
The Ministry also stresses the need to keep the environment clean to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. They advise people to see a doctor if they have symptoms like fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
By staying informed and proactive, the community can help control the spread of these diseases. The fight against dengue and Oropouche fever is ongoing, but with collective effort, it is possible to reduce their impact and protect public health.
