Hantavirus in Argentina

14 Jan 2019

According to media, public health officials in Argentina have reported an outbreak of Hantavirus disease in the province of Chubut. As of the end of the second week of 2019 there have been 24 cases including 8 deaths.

Advice to travellers

The risk to most travellers is low. Risk is increased in those living or working  close to rural - forested areas/rodent infested buildings; campers, agricultural workers, building workers, soldiers are most likely to be exposed.

• Travellers at risk should be aware of the possibility of infection and take steps to minimise exposure to rodent excreta: Protective clothing including face masks and ensuring adequate ventilation should be used when working in environments which may be contaminated with rodent faeces.
• Accomodation that has been out of use for many months should be well ventilated prior to entry.

There is no licensed vaccine for hantavirus available in Europe.