Rising Health Crisis: Dengue and Chikungunya Deaths in Cuba

Cuba is currently facing a rising health crisis with increasing mortality rates from dengue and chikungunya, particularly affecting children. According to CubaNet, the government has reported 55 deaths attributed to these diseases amid a broader public health deterioration.

The Prime Minister, Manuel Marrero, acknowledged a troubling increase in the infant mortality rate, projecting it to hit 9.7 per 1,000 live births by 2025, up from 7.1 the previous year. Notably, actor Raul Enriquez Zerquera recently died from chikungunya complications, illustrating the personal toll of this health crisis.

His death follows that of another actor, Luis Alberto Ramirez, also linked to chikungunya, highlighting the severity of the epidemic, which the government has been accused of downplaying. Reports indicate many citizens avoid hospitals due to a lack of resources for accurate diagnosis and symptom relief, exacerbating the situation.

The government's failure to effectively manage public health and provide necessary resources raises critical concerns for the safety and well-being of the Cuban population, particularly vulnerable groups like children.