Canada Updates Travel Advisory for Cuba Amid Severe Resource Shortages and Health Concerns
Global Affairs Canada has issued an updated travel advisory for Cuba, warning Canadian travelers of worsening shortages of essential resources and a new health risk from viral outbreaks. The advisory, updated on Tuesday, highlights an unpredictable situation that could deteriorate further, affecting transportation and daily life on the island.
Critical Shortages Impacting Travelers
The federal government's notice details severe shortages of food, medicine, water, electricity, and fuel across Cuba. These shortages are described as chronic and severe, impacting basic necessities that travelers often rely on during their stays. The advisory specifically warns that:
- Rolling blackouts are common, sometimes lasting hours each day, with nationwide outages occasionally exceeding 24 hours
- While many resorts have generators, fuel shortages can limit their use, affecting air conditioning, water systems, and food storage
- Food shortages and spoilage can occur in restaurants and resorts due to power outages and fuel limitations
- Shortages extend to bottled water, public water supply, medication, and hard currency
Travelers are advised to bring essential items including medications and toiletries, and if possible, maintain supplies of water, food, and fuel. The government recommends keeping a complete emergency kit accessible during travel.
Transportation Disruptions and Safety Precautions
The advisory notes that transportation, particularly flight availability, could be disrupted on short notice. Cuba currently carries a yellow travel advisory level, meaning travelers should exercise a high degree of caution.
Despite these challenges, Cuba remains one of the most popular international destinations for Canadians, especially during winter months, with cost and beautiful beaches being significant factors. Travelers are encouraged to:
- Monitor local news regularly
- Keep phones charged at all times
- Carry emergency supplies
- Ensure comprehensive travel insurance coverage before departure
New Health Risk: Oropouche Virus Disease
A separate travel health notice warns of outbreaks of Oropouche virus disease (OVD) in the Americas, with specific warnings applying to Cuba and Panama. While this virus has been present in the region previously, health officials note there are now more cases than usual, with some areas reporting cases for the first time.
The Canadian government statement indicates that most travel-related cases have been reported in people returning from Cuba. OVD spreads to humans through the bite of midges or certain mosquitoes, with symptoms appearing three to eight days after exposure.
Symptoms and Health Management
Symptoms of Oropouche virus disease include:
- Chills and sudden fever
- Severe headache
- Muscle and joint pain
These symptoms can last up to seven days and may return days or weeks later. While most people recover, complications can develop leading to more serious illnesses including meningitis, encephalitis, and hemorrhaging. Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for the disease, with management focusing on symptom relief.
The updated advisory comes as Cuba faces multiple challenges affecting both residents and visitors, prompting Canadian officials to urge heightened awareness and preparation for those planning travel to the island nation.
