17/06/2026 07:48 - Salud
Médico profesional examinando a un niño pequeño en una consulta pediátrica moderna con ambiente hospitalario luminoso
The province of San Luis (located in central Argentina) is experiencing a sustained rise in respiratory illnesses that arrived earlier than in the previous five years. According to Edgar Ribba, Director of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, influenza-like illness cases increased by 68% in the last two weeks.
This scenario was anticipated early this year, prompting authorities to launch the annual flu vaccination campaign ahead of schedule. Current case numbers are 21% higher than during the same period last year.
Dr. Rodolfo Toloza, Director of the San Luis Pediatric Hospital, explained that the Northern Hemisphere had already warned of an early viral circulation, associated with a more contagious H3N2 influenza variant.
Arminda Mattar, General Director of Health Management, highlighted that public awareness campaigns helped optimize emergency room usage, prioritizing patients who truly required medical attention.
Authorities remind the public that the flu vaccine is available at all public health centers and authorized private facilities for:
| Target Group | Availability |
|---|---|
| Adults over 65 years | Public and private centers |
| Pregnant women | Public and private centers |
| Children 6 months to 2 years | Public and private centers |
| People aged 2-64 with risk factors | Public and private centers |
Note: The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine for pregnant women between 32-36 weeks of gestation helped prevent a significant increase in bronchiolitis cases among infants.
Authorities reported no official mumps cases in the province. Regarding chickenpox, there was an increase in cases weeks ago, but the situation is currently under control.
Sources: El Chorrillero | Agencia Hoy
Alfredo S. Quiroga
