Public Health authorities reported a decrease in febrile cases and mosquito foci in the province. Although the risk of dengue transmission still exists, epidemiological stability has been achieved, and the municipality of Puerto Padre has been declared free of transmission.

Las Tunas, Cuba.– Dr. Aldo Cortés González, acting director of the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology, emphasized the importance of transforming healthcare through intersectoral collaboration, with concrete prevention strategies and community participation, during the most recent Las Tunas Provincial Health Council meeting.

Cortés González thoroughly analyzed the epidemiological situation in the province and warned about the impact of garbage dumps and small illegal dumpsites, which contribute to the proliferation of vectors and, consequently, to disease outbreaks.

At the same time, he clarified that in the current context, it is vitally important to comply with the legislation regarding the cleaning of multi-family buildings, collective hygiene, and community work. He also urged increased civic responsibility to achieve a safer environment.

The doctor explained that it is necessary to maintain surveillance of the foci, given that 79 city blocks have tested positive and 12 are recurring cases. These latter are under systematic supervision by Vector Control workers, a sector that lacks sufficient personnel and therefore requires the support of workplace health brigades.

He also warned that areas of entomological and epidemiological risk have been identified in the province due to septic tank overflows, sewer system and wastewater leaks, issues that require timely action.

During the meeting, it was reported that preventative measures are in place against H3N2 and SARS-CoV-2, the latter of which has not been detected in the territory since last October. There was also a call to promote hygiene measures and the use of face masks in crowded places.