Western equine encephalitis in Argentina

01 Mar 2024

The Panamerican Health Organization (PAHO) has reported 307 suspected cases of western equine encephalitis from across Argentina between 20 December 2023 and 23 February 2024.

Sixty-nine confirmed cases (including 7 deaths) have been reported from 6 provinces: Buenos Aires (41 cases), Santa Fe (16 cases), Entre Rios (5 cases), Cordoba (4 cases), Buenos Aires City (2 cases), and Santiago del Estero (1 case).

Western equine encephalitis is caused by a mosquito-borne virus and occurs in North and South America. Infection often causes no symptoms but may cause fever, chills, and muscle pain. Some cases result in inflammation of the brain which can be fatal.

Advice for Travellers

If you are travelling to an affected region, you are potentially at risk of western equine encephalitis and should be aware of this infection.

• You can protect yourself by avoiding mosquito bites at all times.

If you develop a high temperature (fever) either during or after travelling to an affected area, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible and give details of your recent travel history.