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Havana syndrome has puzzled experts and the public alike. Find out everything about this condition below.

About Havana Syndrome

Havana syndrome refers to a series of unexplained symptoms experienced by U.S. diplomats and intelligence officers since late 2016.

Those affected reported a range of symptoms including imbalance, migraines, cognitive issues often described as "brain fog," and extreme fatigue. Recent clinical and brain imaging studies by the National Institutes of Health involving about 80 people found no evidence of brain injury. However, nearly one-third of these people met the criteria for a condition known as persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD), a disorder related to abnormal brain function triggered by dizziness or vertigo.

Competing Theories

There are two primary theories about the cause of Havana syndrome. One theory, proposed by medical sociologist Robert Bartholomew and neurologist Robert W. Baloh, suggests that the syndrome results from "mass psychogenic illness" or mass hysteria. This theory posits that the symptoms spread psychosomatically in closed social settings. For example, a loud noise from a Cuban cricket startled an embassy employee, leading to widespread reports of symptoms as others were influenced to notice and report their own health complaints.

The second theory suggests that real attacks, possibly involving pulsed microwaves, caused brain damage. Initial studies from the University of Pennsylvania in 2018 described the syndrome as an "immaculate concussion." Despite these reports, no clear diagnostic criteria have been established, and the symptoms overlap with other conditions like migraines and anxiety.

Microwave Exposure and PPPD

A plausible link between pulsed microwave exposure and PPPD exists without necessarily implying brain damage. The microwave auditory effect, also known as the Frey effect, occurs when pulsed radiofrequency energy directed at the head causes a small temperature increase in the skull and brain. This leads to a pressure wave that produces an audiovestibular sensation perceived as sound. While generally too weak to cause brain damage, strong enough pulses of microwaves, millimeter waves, or laser energy could disturb the vestibular system and trigger PPPD. This might explain the prolonged symptoms experienced by some patients.

Directed Energy Weapons Concerns

Concerns about directed energy weapons are rising. High-powered microwave and millimeter wave transmitters exist and could theoretically produce effects similar to those reported in Havana syndrome. While forensic evidence such as the detection of transmissions or devices is lacking, it remains a sensitive topic with large portions of government reports redacted. Allegations have been made that some incidents resulted from attacks by Russian military intelligence, highlighting the potential for directed energy weapons in nonmilitary settings.