Hantavirus Cases Surge in Argentina, Raising Public Health Concerns
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A recent spike in hantavirus infections across Argentina, coupled with the tragic death of a 14-year-old, has sparked renewed alarm and prompted health officials to reinforce preventative measures. The country recorded at least 22 fatalities from the virus in 2025, a significant increase compared to previous years.
Deadly Outbreak in Buenos Aires
The death of Rodrigo Morinigo, a resident of San Andrés de Giles in the province of Buenos Aires, on January 3rd, brought the threat of hantavirus into sharp focus. Morinigo was initially treated at a local hospital before being transferred to the San José de Pergamino Interzonal General Acute Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to the illness. Local authorities confirmed the diagnosis on January 2nd, according to official data. While the exact source of his infection remains undetermined, the case underscores the vulnerability of rural communities.
National Trends and Rising Fatality Rate
Data from the National Ministry of Health reveals a concerning trend: an increase in hantavirus cases throughout 2025. The latest National Epidemiological Bulletin, published on December 29th, reported 21 deaths nationwide, followed by a further fatality in Santa Fe, bringing the total to 22. This represents a fatality rate of 29.2%, more than double the average of 15.4% observed over the preceding four years.
Understanding Hantavirus and its Transmission
Hantavirus is a viral zoonosis, meaning it’s transmitted from animals to humans. The primary vector is wild rodents, particularly the long-tailed mouse, which are prevalent in rural areas. The virus spreads through contact with the urine, saliva, or feces of infected rodents. Viral particles can become airborne, especially during cleaning activities in enclosed spaces like rural homes or warehouses, leading to inhalation and subsequent infection.
According to the Ministry of Health, initial symptoms include fever exceeding 38°C, muscle pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. As the disease progresses, it can lead to acute respiratory failure and cardiogenic shock, requiring immediate medical attention.
Geographic Distribution and Seasonal Patterns
The center of Argentina accounts for the majority of cases, with 64% of infections concentrated in this region. The northwest reports 21% of cases, while the south and northeast account for 11% and 5%, respectively. Santa Fe has recorded 13 cases and three deaths, and Salta has seen twelve infections and five fatalities, according to provincial health authorities.
The epidemiological pattern indicates a seasonal peak in infections between September and April, with the highest incidence occurring between November and January. Health officials note that 55% of those infected had direct contact with rodents or their excrement, 35% resided in rural areas, and 32% engaged in activities in rural or wild environments.
Prevention is Key in the Absence of Treatment
Currently, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for hantavirus. Therefore, prevention remains the most effective strategy. The Municipality of San Andrés de Giles and the Ministry of Health of the Nation are emphasizing the importance of preventative measures.
These recommendations include:
- Avoiding contact with rodents.
- Sealing homes to prevent rodent entry.
- Regularly cleaning floors, walls, and furniture with disinfectant solutions.
- Locating gardens and firewood piles more than thirty meters from the home.
- Maintaining short grass and ventilating enclosed spaces before cleaning.
- Choosing campsites away from weeds and garbage, avoiding sleeping directly on the ground, and consuming only drinking water.
Health authorities are actively monitoring cohabitants and close contacts of confirmed cases as part of ongoing health control efforts. Eliminating rodent sources and promoting rigorous environmental sanitation remain crucial in reducing the risk of new infections.
