Ever wondered where the oldest infectious diseases hospital in Latin America resides? Here in Buenos Aires stands the Hospital Muñiz a place with a history as rich as the medical advancements it has pioneered.
The Hospital Muñiz began its journey in 1882. It was initially known as the House of Insulation. This was a quarantine station during epidemics. Cholera yellow fever and smallpox patients found refuge here.
Later the new House of Insulation was built in Parque Patricios. It was then renamed Hospital Muñiz in 1904. This was in memory of Francisco Javier Muñiz. He was an Argentine military doctor naturalist and paleontologist. He also served as a senator. Muñiz was also Dean of the Faculty of Medicine.
For many years the Hospital Muñiz was known as the Hospital of the Pests or the Plague Hospital. This name reflected the critical role it played during times of widespread disease.
Originally the Hospital Muñiz boasted over 1100 beds. Today it operates with about 400 beds. The hospital continues to serve Buenos Aires and the surrounding areas.
The Hospital Muñiz has adapted to modern medical challenges. In 1984 the first case of HIV in Buenos Aires was treated here. Today approximately 80% of the hospital’s cases are linked to HIV and AIDS.
The Hospital Muñiz is a national and regional reference center. It specializes in infectious diseases. Its expertise covers a wide range of illnesses. These include tuberculosis pneumonia and leprosy. The hospital even responded to a potential anthrax threat in 2007. They analyzed 8000 samples.
Interestingly a large portion of the Hospital Muñiz patients come from outside Buenos Aires. Approximately 80% arrive from other parts of the country. The hospital also built a special unit for children. This unit serves children whose mothers are carrying the HIV virus. It also has a pavilion for inmates.
Today the Hospital Muñiz stands as a testament to medical progress. It is a beacon of hope for those battling infectious diseases. The Hospital Muñiz remains dedicated to serving the community.