An Unusual Hantavirus Outbreak in Southern Argentina: Person-to-Person Transmission?
Author Information
Author(s): Rachel M. Wells, Sergio Sosa Estani, Zaida E. Yadon, Delia Enria, Paula Padula, Noemi Pini, James N. Mills, Clarence J. Peters, Elsa L. Segura, the Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome Study Group for Patagonia
Hypothesis
Is there evidence for person-to-person transmission of hantavirus during the outbreak in southern Argentina?
Conclusion
Epidemiologic evidence strongly suggests that person-to-person transmission of hantavirus occurred during this outbreak.
Supporting Evidence
- Epidemiologic links between most cases suggest person-to-person transmission.
- Low rodent population density in the area supports the hypothesis of person-to-person transmission.
- Several patients had direct contact with HPS patients before becoming ill.
Takeaway
Doctors and patients got sick from a virus usually spread by rodents, suggesting it might spread between people this time.
Methodology
Potential cases were identified by local physicians and confirmed through serologic testing and PCR.
Limitations
The exact mode of transmission is not known, and the high case-fatality rate limited detailed investigation.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of patients was 38 years, with a range from 13 to 70 years, and 55% were male.
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