Mystery Killer in Brazil

Note to self: watch ProMed-mail for results of blood tests of South African man who fell ill and died in Brazil last week. Early reports suggested it might have been highly contagious arenavirus--and linked to earlier case in Johannesburg clinic. Two days later, health authorities from South Africa said that scenario was unlikely. The blood tests should say for sure. Unclear if results will be out this week.

Another reason to control rat populations in cities: arenaviruses are closely associated with rodents.

Update: Word from Brazil is that it's spotted fever, not arenavirus.