Argentina launches early carbon‑monoxide safety campaign amid surge in poisoning cases

MetroGAS, the Argentine natural‑gas provider, announced an accelerated public‑awareness campaign to curb carbon‑monoxide (CO) poisoning. The initiative lists nine key preventive measures, including annual inspections by licensed gas technicians, ensuring a blue and steady flame, daily ventilation of rooms, and avoiding the use of stoves for heating. "La intoxicación por monóxido puede evitarse con acciones simples," said Hernán Chiesa, MetroGAS head of Public Affairs and Sustainability.

The campaign responds to a sharp rise in CO intoxications. In the province of Mendoza, 20 cases were recorded between January and May 2026, already surpassing the total for 2024. Nationally, 263 cases have been reported for 2026, resulting in nine fatalities. Health authorities note that the increase is occurring earlier than the typical winter months, linked to the use of heating devices without proper technical checks, prompting urgent calls for preventive actions.