Notes on H1N1 in Argentina

I recently visited Argentina. This country’s population is one-third the size of Mexico’s, though they have reported even more deaths from the virus. The government here is taking strict steps to try to limit the spread of H1N1 among its population.

Schools here are currently closed, and the government has ordered them to remain closed for a full month. Large gatherings and meetings have been prohibited throughout the country. Pregnant women and other high-risk young adults are not allowed to go to work.

As soon as an Argentinean experiences symptoms, they are sent directly to the hospital for testing. However, Oseltamivir—an anti-influenza antibiotic—is given only to young adults here.

It is interesting to observe such major differences in the way H1N1 is being managed in Latin America. I will report back more of what I’ve learned in the coming days.