Havana Syndrome

 

Source: IE

Context: The Indian Central government has informed the Karnataka High Court that it will investigate the matter of the ‘Havana Syndrome’ in India, in response to a petition from a Bengaluru resident.

  • The petitioner had requested a writ of mandamus for an inquiry into the syndrome and the prevention of high-frequency microwave transmission in India.

 

About Havana Syndrome:

  • Havana Syndrome refers to a set of mental health symptoms experienced by US intelligence and embassy officials in various countries. These symptoms include hearing unusual sounds, nausea, vertigo, headaches, memory loss, and balance issues. The syndrome originated in Cuba in 2016, affecting US officials there, and has since been reported in multiple countries.

While the exact cause of Havana Syndrome is not certain, it was initially suspected to be related to a “sonic attack” due to the sudden onset of symptoms. Later research suggested that high-powered microwaves might be involved, damaging or interfering with the nervous system.