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Scientists Test Ushuaia Rats for Hantavirus After Cruise Outbreak

5/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Scientists are testing a subspecies of long-tailed pygmy rice rat for hantavirus in Ushuaia.
The Malbrán Institute trapped rodents around Ushuaia to investigate the MV Hondius cruise-ship outbreak.
Overnight traps caught dead rats, which were taken to a lab and will be sent to Buenos Aires for testing that may take a month.
Officials hope to find a local hantavirus amid climate-linked case rise, noting the province has never tested.

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Story summary

Scientists are testing a subspecies of long-tailed pygmy rice rat for hantavirus in Ushuaia.
The Malbrán Institute trapped rodents around Ushuaia to investigate the MV Hondius cruise-ship outbreak.
Overnight traps caught dead rats, which were taken to a lab and will be sent to Buenos Aires for testing that may take a month.
Officials hope to find a local hantavirus amid climate-linked case rise, noting the province has never tested.