Key Takeaways
- The US embassy in Havana issued a health alert due to a spike in intestinal illnesses and diarrhea.
- The alert links the health issues to the failing water and electricity supply caused by the fuel blockade.
- UN experts have called the fuel blockade a violation of international law, citing humanitarian concerns.
The US embassy in Havana has issued a health alert, warning travelers and residents of Cuba about a significant increase in diarrheal illnesses, linked to the ongoing degradation of water and energy infrastructure.
This degradation, exacerbated by a fuel blockade imposed by the Trump administration, has led to a sharp increase in power cuts and complications in refrigeration and sanitation measures.
The alert advises residents and travelers to be cautious of perishable foods that may have been inadequately stored and to avoid eating foods that have been sitting at room temperature for extended periods.
The US health alert comes nine months after the fuel blockade was imposed, contributing to a sharp spike in power cuts and complicating refrigeration and sanitary measures in homes and businesses.
UN-appointed human rights experts have condemned the fuel blockade, calling it a violation of international law and a humanitarian crisis.
The experts warned of a growing risk of disease outbreaks on the island as the US has tightened sanctions, threatening the rights to health, to life, to food, and to development.
Residents throughout Cuba have complained of rampant illnesses, including several days of diarrhea, fever, and body aches, leaving many bedridden.
During the Caribbean’s sultry summer, the lack of air conditioning and refrigeration has become a significant issue, with blackouts spanning days becoming commonplace amid the US fuel blockade.
