Outbreak of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome in Chile, 1997
Author Information
Author(s): Jorge Toro, Jeanette D. Vega, Ali S. Khan, James N. Mills, Paula Padula, William Terry, Zaida Yadon, Rosa Valderrama, Barbara A. Ellis, Carlos Pavletic, Rodrigo Cerda, Sherif Zaki, Shieh Wun-Ju, Richard Meyer, Mauricio Tapia, Carlos Mansilla, Michel Baro, Jose A. Vergara, Marisol Concha, Gladys Calderon, Delia Enria, C.J. Peters, Thomas G. Ksiazek
Primary Institution: Ministry of Health, Santiago, Chile
Hypothesis
What are the epidemiological and ecological factors contributing to the outbreak of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in Chile?
Conclusion
The outbreak of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in Chile was associated with high rodent populations and confirmed cases of Andes virus infection.
Supporting Evidence
- 25 cases of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome were identified in southern Chile.
- High densities of sigmodontine rodents were found in the outbreak area.
- Person-to-person transmission was suggested in two family clusters.
Takeaway
In 1997, many people in Chile got sick from a virus carried by rodents, and scientists found that the virus was spreading among families.
Methodology
Epidemiological surveillance, case identification, rodent trapping, and laboratory testing for hantavirus.
Limitations
The study did not trap rodents in urban areas, which may limit understanding of transmission dynamics.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of patients was 31.4 years, with 76% male and 15.2% children under 17 years.
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