Cuba Battles Deadly Mosquito-Borne Viruses: What's Happening?

Cuba is facing a serious health crisis. Mosquitoes are spreading two dangerous viruses: chikungunya and dengue. These viruses have caused 33 deaths since July. Sadly, many of these deaths were young children. The problem started in the western part of Cuba and has now spread everywhere. Chikungunya and dengue are not new. Chikungunya was first found in Africa in the 1950s. It causes fever, joint pain, and fatigue. Most people get better in a week. But some people, especially babies, older adults, and those with health problems, can get very sick. Dengue is another mosquito-borne virus. It causes flu-like symptoms. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening. Cuba has dealt with chikungunya before in 2014. But this time, it's much harder to control. Why is this happening? Poor sanitation, garbage, and water shortages are making it worse. Mosquitoes breed in stored water. Economic problems, U. S. sanctions, and the pandemic have made it difficult to get fuel, medical supplies, and mosquito control. The U. S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued travel warnings. They advise people traveling to Cuba and other affected countries to take precautions. This includes getting vaccinated, using insect repellent, and wearing long sleeves and pants. Other countries with active chikungunya cases include Bangladesh, China, Kenya, Madagascar, Somalia, and Sri Lanka. In the U. S. , New York reported its first locally acquired case in October 2025.