RCMP seeks cause of illnesses suffered by Canadian diplomats in Cuba: official

Eight Canadians required followup medical care after diplomats and family members in Cuba suffered unexplained ailments, a senior Global Affairs official says.

A total of 27 people from 10 diplomatic families underwent testing when some complained of dizziness, nosebleeds or headaches — symptoms that developed amid concern about possible acoustic attacks.

There is no indication anyone has suffered permanent damage, and the eight who needed additional care have since returned to work or school, the official said Wednesday at a media briefing.

The RCMP is leading a government-wide investigation into the illnesses, which remain a mystery, he said.

Canada is working with the United States — many of whose personnel in Havana also took ill — and Cuban authorities to try to solve the puzzle.

The official spoke to the media on condition he not be identified, an effort by Global Affairs to shed light on the odd occurrences without compromising privacy of the families or security in Cuba.

Recently declassified memos show the federal government sent a doctor to Havana to examine diplomats and family members. The June visit by Dr. Jeffrey Chernin of Health Canada revealed symptoms similar to those experienced by U.S. staff in Cuba.