Mysterious Respiratory Illness Leaves Three People Dead In Argentina

Three people have died in Argentina from an unknown respiratory ailment, prompting questions.

Authorities announced the deaths on Thursday (local time) and ruled out any link to COVID-19 or the flu.

Nine people have contracted the illness in Tucuman, a province in Argentina.

Health officials said the disease is similar to COVID-19 and four people are being treated in hospital for it, Forbes reported.

Samples were sent to the Malbran Institute in Buenos Aires for further testing.

Eight of the nine persons who became infected with the mysterious sickness worked at the Malbran clinic. Close contacts of the infected individuals, as well as their coworkers, are being checked for symptoms such as difficulty breathing, fever, diarrhea, and body aches.

According to Forbes, investigators have not decided whether or not the disease is caused by environmental factors or an infectious agent, and they are currently conducting tests to see whether or not water and air conditioners have been contaminated.

It has been reported that the regional offices of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in Argentina are monitoring the situation in conjunction with the Argentine health authorities.