Two new cases of hydatidosis have been reported—one in the Capital department and one in Rivadavia—during the last epidemiological week. The cumulative total for 2026 is 20 cases, according to the Ministry of Health.
Of the confirmed cases, 8 were recorded in Rivadavia, 2 in Cachi, 1 in Cafayate, 3 in Capital, 3 in San Martín, 1 in La Poma, 1 in Orán, and 1 was diagnosed in a patient residing in another province.
70% of the cases are distributed across the Rivadavia, San Martín, and Capital departments.
Hydatidosis is a disease caused by the parasite Echinococcus granulosus, which is transmitted by dogs through their feces. The parasite’s eggs contaminate water, grass, and other objects.
Echinococcus in New Hampshire with Dr. Elizabeth Talbot
Infection occurs when the parasite’s eggs enter a person’s mouth—particularly in children—through activities such as kissing a dog or letting it lick them, or consuming contaminated vegetables or water, among others.
Affected individuals develop cysts in the liver and lungs, although the cysts can also spread to other parts of the body. Patients with hydatid cysts may remain asymptomatic until the cysts grow in size and symptoms appear.
