Two children have died in a province in Argentina with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) so far in 2024.

The Ministry of Health of Córdoba said that in the first four weeks of the year, seven cases of HUS and two deaths were reported, with no link between them. HUS is a severe complication associated with E. coli infections that causes kidney failure. 

All patients were younger than 7; six were male, and one was female. Four lived in Córdoba, while one each came from Río Cuarto and San Justo. One case was from Buenos Aires but visited Córdoba.

All required care and hospitalization in different health centers. While five of them were discharged, the patients from Río Cuarto and Buenos Aires died.

ongoing problem
From January to November 2023, 18 cases of HUS were registered in the province of Córdoba, a figure lower than the 27 cases in the previous year.

Of the 18 confirmed cases, 16 were children younger than 5. The most affected age group was between 2 and 4, with 11 cases. In total, 12 were male and six were female.

Every year on August 19, Argentina marks a national day to raise awareness about HUS and how to prevent the disease.

Authorities reminded people of the need to pay attention to food handling and conservation, wash their hands frequently, and only use safe water.

Health officials said early consultation was essential in children with gastrointestinal symptoms, especially diarrhea or vomiting. They urged people to avoid self-medication or administering home remedies so that professionals can provide care and any appropriate follow-up to patients.