The Enigma of Havana Syndrome:  Unexplained Attacks, Uncertain Answers

A bizarre collection of symptoms

A bizarre collection of symptoms 

Headaches, dizziness, nausea, hearing loss, and even cognitive difficulties reported by diplomats and intelligence officers starting in 2016. 

The Cuban Connection

The Cuban Connection 

Initial cases occurred in Havana, Cuba, leading to the name "Havana Syndrome."

Global Spread

Global Spread 

Incidents expanded beyond Cuba to include China, Russia, the US, and other countries.

Suspected Causes

Suspected Causes 

Theories point to directed energy attacks, possibly microwaves, but no conclusive proof exists.

Invisible injuries

Invisible injuries 

Victims struggle with lingering health problems that are difficult to diagnose and treat.

High-stakes mystery

High-stakes mystery 

The attacks raise concerns about the safety of personnel serving abroad.

Weapon or illness? 

Debate rages over whether the syndrome represents deliberate attacks or has a more mundane medical explanation.

The search for evidence 

Scientists scramble to identify a cause and develop countermeasures.

An ongoing threat 

The possibility of future attacks leaves those in diplomatic and intelligence communities on edge.