# South American mass intoxication incidents

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/south-american-mass-intoxication-incidents
> Updated: 2026-10-29T22:31:00.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2.

Multiple regions across South America have reported incidents of mass intoxication involving various causes. In late October 2026, reports emerged from Bolivia and Argentina regarding pesticide contamination. In Bolivia, three minors were poisoned by food containing pesticide residues, following findings of 46 types of agrochemicals in Cochabamba markets. In Argentina, eight residents in Junín experienced symptoms after contact with residues in a vacant lot where organophosphate containers were found.

By the end of October, additional incidents were reported in Venezuela, Argentina, and Peru. In Venezuela, over 40 students and staff were hospitalized at a school in Trujillo state. In Argentina, three family members died and four others were hospitalized in Bolívar following a suspected intoxication, with authorities investigating potential carbon monoxide poisoning. In Peru, 64 university students required medical attention after consuming food from a dining hall, leading to the suspension of the provider’s contract during an investigation.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-29: Multiple mass intoxications reported in Venezuela, Argentina, and Peru

Mass intoxication incidents have been reported in Venezuela, where over 40 students were hospitalized, in Argentina, resulting in three deaths, and in Peru, affecting 64 university students.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bolvar-three-family-members-die-in-suspected-poisoning

### 2026-10-22: Pesticide contamination causes multiple intoxications in Bolivia and Argentina

Pesticide contamination has led to multiple poisonings: three children in Bolivia and eight residents in Junín, Argentina, following exposure to agricultural chemical residues.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pesticide-contamination-causes-multiple-intoxications-in-bolivia-and-argentina

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Cite as: South American mass intoxication incidents. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/south-american-mass-intoxication-incidents
