Havana Pediatric ICU Breach Triggers Investigation at Juan Manuel Márquez Hospital

A group entered the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of the Juan Manuel Márquez Pediatric Teaching Hospital in Havana without authorization on Monday night. Hospital officials described the episode as a "regrettable incident," noting that it disrupted normal operations, created tension, and temporarily put medical care at risk. Authorities intervened to restore order, and the hospital praised the staff for remaining calm and professional while ensuring continuity of care for the children in the unit. The statement did not disclose the identities, number of intruders, arrests made, or any direct impact on patients.

The breach occurs amid a broader strain on Cuba’s pediatric healthcare system, which has faced recent challenges such as a cockroach infestation, power outages, and a generator fire at another pediatric hospital. Earlier in July, a Spanish NGO donated solar panels and medical equipment to improve energy reliability at the Juan Manuel Márquez ICU. Unverified social‑media reports suggested the intruders were armed and attempting to demand attention for a child, but these claims have not been confirmed by the hospital.