Buenos Aires - The number of swine flu cases in Argentina rose drastically on Friday, with the new government health minister reporting an estimated 100,000 cases of of the A(H1N1) virus. At least 44 people have died, including two new deaths in the province of Santa Fe, the country's new Health Minister Juan Luis Manzur said. The estimate of infected includes those who have already recovered, minor cases and those without symptoms, he said.
The last official figure released last week stood at 1,587 infected and 26 dead. Argentina has seen the third most deaths from the virus after Mexico and the United States.
The country has closed most public facilities, including schools and universities. Many cities and towns have also ordered the closure of shops, restaurants, cafes, sports centres and dance halls.
