Summary
Cuba is facing a big challenge with mosquito-borne illnesses, and nearly a third of its people are affected. Health workers in Havana are trying to fight viruses like dengue and chikungunya as an economic crisis makes the situation worse. The Cuban government is testing new treatments to tackle the spread of these diseases.
Key Facts
- Nearly one-third of Cuba's population is affected by mosquito-borne illnesses.
- Diseases like dengue and chikungunya are spreading quickly, especially in Havana.
- The Cuban government is conducting clinical trials on new treatments for these diseases.
- Chikungunya is spread by the Aedes mosquito and can cause severe, long-lasting symptoms.
- A global outbreak of chikungunya has infected almost 340,000 people in 2025, with 145 deaths reported.
- Cuba's efforts to control the mosquito population are hindered by an ongoing economic crisis.
- The U.S. economic embargo on Cuba adds to the challenges, causing shortages of essential supplies.
- Frequent power outages in Cuba lead people to open windows, increasing exposure to mosquitoes.
