Havana syndrome reported at Embassy in Colombia before Blinken visit

Officials are investigating possible cases of Havana syndrome at the US embassy in Colombia.

The cases are reported just days before Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to the country. Embassy staff in Bogota have reportedly been injured by the strange illness.

The Havana syndrome was first reported in Cuba in 2016. It causes a painful sound in the ears which leads to nausea and dizziness.

Those affected by it have been diagnosed with brain damage, and since its appearance in 2016, it has affected US diplomats around the World.

Many experts believe it to be a bioweapon as no foreign nationals are so far affected by it.

The Colombian President has also told the New York Times that his country is investigating the incident. The inquiry however, is being led by the US.

Over 180 people affected by the illness have battled with nausea and dizziness for months. Over half of those affected by the Havana Syndrome are CIA employees, according to the Times.

The US has already passed a new law which empowers the CIA and State Department to provide financial support to government employees affected by the syndrome.

The State Department is still investigating the incident and has yet to comment on the situation. The new cases are reported a week ahead of Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s scheduled visit to Bogota.

VP Kamala Harris’ visit to Vietnam was delayed in August after a couple of US officials reported symptoms similar to the illness.

The US still has no answer to the illness but hostile intent is suspected. Officials are suspected to be targeted with microwaves by hostile actors, and the group or country behind the attacks so far remains hidden.

US investigations have not yet concluded but many analysists suspect Russia or China behind the attacks.