Catamarca scientists investigate hantavirus in wild rodents

Scientists from CONICET and the Malbrán Institute have conducted an unprecedented survey in rural areas of Catamarca, Argentina, to determine if wild rodents carry the hantavirus. The study, conducted in the Santa Rosa and Aconquija departments, aims to identify potential health risks, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis.

While the rodents studied are wild species rather than urban ones, officials warned that human encroachment on natural habitats could bring these animals closer to urban settlements. Researchers are currently awaiting biological analysis results to confirm or rule out the presence of these infectious agents.