The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has released an epidemiological alert regarding increasing cases of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in the Americas region. Argentina and Chile continue to report the majority of cases in the Southern Cone.\n\nAccording to the PAHO report, Argentina reported 134 confirmed HPS cases in 2024, while Chile documented 62 cases during the same period. The seasonal pattern shows increased transmission during late spring and summer months when human outdoor activities overlap with rodent habitat areas.\n\nThe Andes virus (ANDV) remains the primary causative agent in South America and is notable for being one of the few hantaviruses capable of person-to-person transmission. Health authorities emphasize the importance of early symptom recognition and immediate medical care.\n\nPAHO recommends strengthening surveillance systems, ensuring laboratory diagnostic capacity, and implementing public awareness campaigns in endemic areas.
Outbreak UpdatesSouth America
PAHO Epidemiological Alert: Hantavirus Cases Rising in Americas Region
The Pan American Health Organization has issued an epidemiological alert as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome cases increase across the Americas region.
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