Holguín: Wear a face mask and extreme hygiene measures
- Written by Lourdes Pichs Rodríguez
- Published in Health
- Hits: 49
Due to the possible circulation in Cuba of the XFG (Stratus) subvariant of Omicron, which is highly contagious, health authorities recommend strengthening hygiene measures and resuming the use of face masks, especially in public places, transportation, and healthcare centers.
Emphasis is placed on hand washing and disinfection, physical distancing, and other actions to prevent the transmission of this XFG subvariant of COVID-19.
According to Dr. Francisco Durán García, National Director of Hygiene and Epidemiology, the most notable characteristic of Stratus is its high contagiousness, even during the asymptomatic period; it can cause hoarseness, sore throat, fever, and other ailments that lead to bed rest.
During debates in the Health and Sports Commission of the Cuban Parliament, Dr. Gretza Sánchez Padrón from the Ministry of Public Health reported that acute respiratory infections (ARI) in Cuba follow a seasonal pattern with an increase in winter, but they also rise in July and August.
Since epidemiological week 10, 11 provinces and the special municipality of Isla de la Juventud have seen a notable increase in cases, accounting for more than 60% of medical consultations for ARI.
So far this year, 17 types of respiratory viruses have been identified, including pandemic influenza H1N1, respiratory syncytial virus, coronavirus, and rhinovirus, as well as SARS-CoV-2.
Although the public health risk of this subvariant is considered low, maintaining preventive measures, even at home and work, is essential to avoid illness during the holiday period.
The use of face masks, although uncomfortable during the heat, helps to prevent flu infections and other respiratory illnesses.
