The U.S. embassy in Havana issued a health alert for Cuba on Friday, warning travelers and residents of a spike in ​intestinal illnesses and diarrhea caused by failing water and electricity supply, even ‌as the Trump administration continued to hold back fuel shipments necessary for power generation on the island.

"The U.S. Embassy has noted a significant increase in diarrheal illness across Cuba, associated ​with the continuing degradation of the water and energy infrastructure," the ​alert stated. "This degradation affects water supply, and food storage and temperature ⁠control."

The U.S. warning comes nine months after the Trump administration imposed a fuel ​blockade on the communist-run island, contributing to a sharp spike in power cuts ​and complicating refrigeration and sanitary measures in homes and businesses.