Several US diplomats in Cuba allegedly victims of unknown 'health attacks'

Several American and Canadian diplomats in Havana have allegedly been subjected to "health attacks" since 2016 that have caused them to develop various medical conditions, such as mild traumatic brain injury and potential damage to their central nervous systems, according to a CBS News report.

Various American and Canadian diplomats have complained of symptoms ranging from hearing loss and nausea to headaches and balance disorders since late 2016, the report states. It is unclear how many diplomats have been affected.

U.S. officials reportedly launched an investigation into whether the diplomats were the targets of "a type of sonic attack directed at their homes" and whether those attacks were perpetrated by the Cuban government, an unnamed source familiar with the issue told CBS News.

The individuals affected have undergone comprehensive audiological evaluations and a number of other tests, according to the report.

The U.S. Department of State has not identified the source of the attacks, CBS News reports.  Cuban officials have denied any involvement in the incidents.

"We hold the Cuban authorities responsible for finding out who is carrying out these health attacks on not just our diplomats but, as you've seen now, there are other cases with other diplomats involved," U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said during a press conference Aug. 11.  

A state department spokesperson told CBS News, "We remain in regular contact with the Cuban government to emphasize that we take these incidents very seriously and to resolve this matter in a satisfactory manner."

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