A 22-year-old footballer has died after contracting a virus carried by rodents.
Matías Uribe Nova was admitted to A&E after experiencing altered consciousness and low blood pressure.
He had earlier sought medical attention at an urgent care centre with gastrointestinal symptoms, fever, and headache.
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During his second visit, laboratory tests and a chest X-ray were performed.
When the attending physician suspected hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a transfer from the hospital in Lirquén, Chile, to a larger facility in Talcahuano was requested.
However, while awaiting transfer on Saturday (7 Feb), Matías suffered cardiac arrest and, despite receiving CPR, died.
Following his passing, the Biobío regional Health Authority confirmed the presence of the virus – the first case in the region this year.
Andrea Gutiérrez Aravena, head of the authority’s epidemiology unit, said: “We have launched an epidemiological and environmental investigation to determine the factors that contributed to the infection, the duration of exposure, and other relevant details, taking into account that the virus’s incubation period can last up to 45 days before symptoms appear.”
It is believed Matías contracted hantavirus while assisting those affected by major wildfires in the area, as reported by Need To Know.
Hantaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause diseases such as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome.
They are mainly spread through contact with rodents, particularly exposure to their urine, droppings, or saliva.
Matías played football for Club Deportivo Juventud Iberia, an amateur team based in Penco, where his remains were laid in wake.
The club paid tribute: “Matías never showed a bad expression, never got angry, had an enormous heart, and a light that seemed to come from somewhere special.
“He was truly remarkable, touched so many hearts, and today everyone realises how deeply he reached each and every one.
“When the wildfires broke out, he was clearly among the first to go and help – supporting those affected in his beloved club and even people he didn’t know.
“He went to help without asking for details, giving everything he had, truly everything, even to the ultimate extreme… giving his life.
“Even if it’s hard to grasp now, Matías gave his life for those who needed it most during this disaster, and God will reward him infinitely alongside his family.
“Fly high, dear Mati. We will always remember you.”
Matías was laid to rest in Penco on Monday (9 Feb). He is survived by his family, including his sister.
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