Cuba to deploy 9,000 troops to prevent Zika virus

Eloy, 38, a Cuban military reservist who is working in a fumigation campaign against Aedes aegypti mosquito, posses for a picture in Havana February 22, 2016.[Photo/Agencies]

"In this situation, it is necessary for all citizens and entities to strictly comply with health standards and measures... to prevent the spread of epidemics," said Castro.

A week ago, Cuba reinforced its epidemiological surveillance at 24 border points in order to detect the possible infection of the Zika virus. 10 airports and 14 seaports have installed temperature scanners to inspect travellers.

The World Health Organization has warned of the rapid spread of the Zika virus which affected 32 countries in Latin America, declaring it an international public health emergency.

The Pan-American Health Organization estimated that the virus could affect 3 to 4 million people in Latin America over the next 12 months.