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Hantavirus Cases Surge in Argentina Amid Climate Change and Habitat Loss

KVIA•Friday, May 8, 2026 at 1:12 PM•CNN Newsource

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A recent outbreak of hantavirus linked to a cruise ship from Argentina has resulted in three fatalities, highlighting a troubling increase in cases across the country. The Argentine Ministry of Health reported 101 confirmed cases for the 2025-2026 season, nearly double the 57 cases from the previous year. Factors such as climate change, urban development in wild areas, and habitat destruction are contributing to this rise, as they allow hantavirus carriers like rodents to thrive in new regions. The Andes variant of the virus, which can be transmitted between humans, is particularly concerning, with a mortality rate between 10% and 32%. Residents are urged to avoid risky areas, especially for tourism, to prevent exposure.

Key Details: • 101 confirmed hantavirus cases reported for the 2025-2026 season as of the latest epidemiological report. • The Andes variant of hantavirus poses a significant risk with a mortality rate of 30%. • Residents should avoid tourism in areas with high vegetation and known hantavirus risks.

tourism public-health climate-change epidemic hantavirus

People & Organizations

ArgentinaOrganización Mundial de la SaludRoberto DebbagEpuyénChubutAnabella GonzálezRicardo TejeiroEduardo LópezSebastián ValleMinisterio de Salud de Argentina

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