Buenos Aires Reports Hantavirus Cases in 2026

According to the Argentine Ministry of Health, there has been an increase in hantavirus cases in early 2026, particularly affecting the Central Region of the country.

This region, which includes provinces such as Buenos Aires, Entre Ríos, and Santa Fe, has consistently reported the highest number of cases in recent seasons.

As of February 2, 2026, national health authorities confirmed a total of 14 cases in the new year, with 7 in Buenos Aires Province, 5 in Salta, 1 in Entre Ríos, and 1 in Río Negro.

The current epidemiological season (from week 27 of 2025 to the present) has shown heightened activity. Argentina has recorded approximately 70 confirmed cases, resulting in 20 deaths, which gives a case fatality rate (CFR) of around 34.5% — the highest rate seen in the past seven years.

The Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of preventive measures, including avoiding contact with rodents, ensuring proper ventilation in enclosed spaces before entering, using protective gear when cleaning rodent-infested areas, and securely storing food items.

Currently, there is no vaccine for hantavirus. Still, clinical research is focused on DNA and mRNA candidates, with a Phase 2 study evaluating HTNV/PUUV DNA vaccines and new MVA-Hanta trials testing a modified vaccinia Ankara vector. 

Furthermore, treatment is primarily supportive.

Early diagnosis within the critical 48-hour window after the onset of symptoms is essential for improving outcomes. Symptoms typically begin with flu-like signs and can progress to severe respiratory distress.

International organizations, including the Pan American Health Organization, are closely monitoring the situation in this South American country.