# Hantavirus investigation and new case in Argentina

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/hantavirus-investigation-in-argentina
> Updated: 2026-09-03T18:17:32.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 3.

In Neuquén, Argentina, health authorities launched an epidemiological investigation following the death of a 26-year-old man in Ruca Choroi. The patient, who had been performing field work in rural areas, died at Zapala Hospital after a rapid decline in health. Preliminary findings noted the presence of rodents in the area.

In response to potential risks, scientists from CONICET and the Malbrán Institute conducted an unprecedented survey of wild rodents in the Santa Rosa and Aconquija departments of Catamarca. The study aims to identify the presence of hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis in wild species, as human encroachment on natural habitats may increase contact between these animals and urban settlements. Researchers are currently awaiting biological analysis results to confirm or rule out the presence of these infectious agents.

A second case of hantavirus has been confirmed in Aluminé, Neuquén. This patient, a young adult, contracted the virus after having close contact with the 26-year-old individual who died several weeks prior. Angélica Huglich, Director of the Aluminé Hospital, stated the new patient is currently stable and under monitoring at the Zapala Hospital after 15 days of isolation. Reported symptoms include fever and headache. Health authorities have identified 32 close contacts of the original deceased individual and three members of the new patient’s immediate family, all of whom are currently in home isolation.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-03: Neuquén reports new hantavirus case following contact with deceased patient

A new hantavirus case has been confirmed in Neuquén, Argentina, following close contact with a person who recently died from the virus. The patient is currently stable in Zapala Hospital.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/neuqun-reports-new-hantavirus-case-following-contact-with-deceased-patient

### 2026-08-26: Catamarca scientists investigate hantavirus in wild rodents

Scientists in Catamarca, Argentina, are investigating wild rodent populations for hantavirus and other zoonotic diseases to assess regional health risks.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/catamarca-scientists-investigate-hantavirus-in-wild-rodents

### 2026-08-17: Neuquén authorities investigate hantavirus death in Ruca Choroi

Authorities in Neuquén, Argentina, are investigating a hantavirus infection after a 26-year-old man from Ruca Choroi died following rapid health deterioration.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/neuqun-authorities-investigate-hantavirus-death-in-ruca-choroi

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Cite as: Hantavirus investigation and new case in Argentina. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/hantavirus-investigation-in-argentina