Hantavirus cases nearly doubled in Argentina in the past year. Experts say climate change is to blame
Associated Press (AP)
Associated Press (AP)· 2 min read
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🗞️ Driving the news: Argentina has recorded a sharp rise in hantavirus infections and deaths, with experts linking the surge to climate change, habitat destruction and shifting human-wildlife interactions
🔭 The context: The country has confirmed 101 hantavirus cases since June 2025, nearly double the same period last year, alongside 32 deaths
• Authorities are also investigating a deadly outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, linked to the rare Andes strain, which can spread between humans through close contact
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The outbreak highlights how climate change and ecosystem disruption can increase the spread of zoonotic diseases
• Rising temperatures, droughts, intense rainfall, deforestation and wildfires are altering rodent habitats and pushing disease-carrying species into new regions, increasing risks for human populations
⏭️ What’s next: Argentine health authorities are tracing the movements of infected travelers and sending epidemiological teams to investigate potential rodent exposure zones
• Experts warn that climate-driven disease risks may continue expanding geographically
💬 One quote: “Increasing human interaction with wild environments, habitat destruction... and the effects of climate change contribute to the appearance of cases outside historically endemic areas.” — Argentina’s Health Ministry
📈 One stat: Argentina has reported 101 hantavirus cases this season, compared with 57 during the same period last year
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