US warns of a “significant” rise in diarrheal illnesses in Cuba

The US Embassy in Cuba has issued repeated warnings about health and security conditions on the island, including what it calls a significant rise in diarrheal illnesses. The alerts come as Washington maintains an oil blockade and a package of sanctions that Le Figaro says have worsened Cuba's energy and economic crisis.

In an alert posted on X, the embassy linked the increase in illness to the continuing deterioration of water and electricity infrastructure. The problems affect water supplies, as well as food storage and temperature control, it said. The mission also reported outbreaks of Escherichia coli and Shigella, along with other gastrointestinal pathogens.

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The US Embassy has observed a significant increase in diarrheal illnesses throughout Cuba due to the continuing deterioration of water and electricity infrastructure.

A separate health alert warned of major challenges to health and safety caused by water shortages and persistent power cuts. The embassy attributed the situation to “poor management of public infrastructure by the regime” in Havana. The Cuban government, for its part, holds Washington responsible for the crisis facing the island.

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Poor management of public infrastructure by the regime.

The US mission also warned of a notable increase in thefts from vehicles across Havana. It said the deterioration of economic conditions had produced a broad rise in crime in Cuba.

The island, which has faced a US embargo since 1962, is experiencing what the article describes as its worst economic crisis in recent history. Blackouts can last up to 60 hours in some areas, while inflation is soaring and food and medicine remain scarce. Despite its maximum-pressure policy toward Havana, Washington has sent several shipments of humanitarian aid to Cuba in recent months.

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A notable increase in thefts or larcenies from vehicles throughout Havana.