Hantavirus case confirmed in 13-year-old patient in Potosí

Health authorities have confirmed a case of hantavirus in a 13-year-old adolescent currently hospitalized in Potosí. The patient, originally from the Sidra community in the Yacuiba municipality of Tarija, was admitted to the pediatric unit of the Hospital Fray Giovanni Eugenio Natalini Magnani on September 29 after presenting with respiratory symptoms.

The patient was transferred from Yacuiba to Potosí due to a lack of available medical space in Tarija. The diagnosis was confirmed by laboratory results from the Centro Nacional de Enfermedades Tropicales (Cenetrop) in Santa Cruz.

Ismael Colque, interim head of Epidemiology for the Departmental Health Service, stated that the patient is currently stable and under observation. Epidemiological and Zoonosis units are conducting follow-up procedures. Health officials have mandated the use of biosecurity equipment for all medical staff treating the patient and will monitor the health of those who provided initial care.