The U.S. State Department has issued a Cuba travel warning, advising
U.S. citizens about the risks of travel to Cuba while the island is recovering
from Hurricane Irma.
Some parts of country may be without power or running water.
The State Department specifically said north-central Cuba suffered severe
damage and “should be avoided until further notice.”
Power and water service have been restored in Havana, said
the State Department, which added that floodwater has severely damaged the U.S.
embassy in Havana.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration is considering a closure
of the embassy because of “health attacks” that have harmed American diplomats
in Cuba, according to the Associated Press.
The AP reports that 21 individuals have been affected. Some
have permanent hearing loss or concussions, while others suffered nausea,
headaches and ear-ringing. Some are struggling with concentration or common
word recall.
Some victims felt vibrations or heard loud sounds
mysteriously audible in only parts of rooms, leading investigators to consider
a potential "sonic attack," the AP reported. Others heard nothing but
later developed symptoms.
The State Department has emphasized that the U.S. doesn't
know what has occurred. Cuba has denied any involvement or responsibility but said
it is eager to help the U.S. resolve the matter.