Matanzas Orders Water Boiling Due to Hepatitis Cases Amid Blackouts

Authorities in Matanzas, Cuba, have issued a public health warning. They are asking everyone to boil and chlorinate their drinking water.

This recommendation comes after a few isolated cases of hepatitis were found in the province.

📄 Where and When

The warning was issued on Sunday, March 9, 2025. It affects several areas in Matanzas province.

Specific locations mentioned include Los Mangos, Matanzas Oeste, San Antonio de Cabezas, Jovellanos, and Pedro Betancourt. Many other municipalities are also impacted by the water shortage.

📄 Why It Matters

The main reason for this alert is the detection of hepatitis cases. These are linked to contaminated water, especially during the current energy crisis.

Prolonged power outages have severely disrupted the operation of water pumping systems. This means many areas are not getting a regular supply of clean water. This situation increases health risks for the population.

📄 What Officials Say

The Provincial Government of Matanzas announced the measure on Facebook. They stated the goal is to minimize the risk of diseases from contaminated water.

However, they did not specify the exact number of hepatitis cases. They also did not mention the specific type of hepatitis or all the affected municipalities.

The Cuban Electric Company reported that power circuits to hospitals were temporarily shut down to redirect energy to areas without electricity for longer periods. Despite this, emergency services, patient care, and critical treatments like dialysis are being maintained.

📄 What's Next

Officials hope the situation will improve soon. They mentioned that the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant and other national power units are expected to come online.

This should help restore power and, consequently, improve the water supply systems. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and follow the water treatment instructions until the situation stabilizes.