Reconsider travel to Cuba due to health attacks directed at U.S. Embassy Havana employees.
Over the past several months, numerous U.S. Embassy Havana employees appear to have been targeted in specific attacks. Many of these employees have suffered injuries as a consequence of these attacks. Affected individuals have exhibited a range of physical symptoms including ear complaints and hearing loss, dizziness, headaches, fatigue, cognitive issues, visual problems, and difficulty sleeping.
Because our personnel's safety is at risk, and we are unable to identify the source of the attacks, we believe U.S. citizens may also be at risk. Attacks have occurred in U.S. diplomatic residences and at Hotel Nacional and Hotel Capri in Havana.
On September 29, 2017, the Department ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to protect the safety of our personnel. Due to the drawdown in staff, the U.S. Embassy in Havana has limited ability to assist U.S. citizens.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Cuba:
- Avoid Hotel Nacional and Hotel Capri.
- Know where to seek medical care in Cuba.
- Consult with a medical professional if you believe you have suffered symptoms similar to those listed above.
- Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for Cuba.
- U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Location: Countrywide
Event: The Department of State’s Travel Advisory for Cuba details how numerous U.S. government employees appear to have been targeted in specific attacks, and that many of those employees suffered injuries as a consequence of these attacks.
On February 14, 2018, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published an article written by independent medical personnel involved in the evaluation and treatment of these injuries.
Actions to Take:
- Discuss the JAMA article with a doctor if you have concerns prior to travel.
- Consult with a doctor if you are concerned about symptoms you experienced either during or after your visit to Cuba.
Assistance:
S. Embassy Havana, Cuba
+(53) (7) 839-4100
+(53) (7) 839-4100 and dial 1, then 0 (after hours)
acshavana@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Cuba Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter