An increase in spills of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), a toxic liquid used to cool large transformers, has put the Argentine population on full alert. PCB contaminates the earth and is transported by wind and rain. In Argentina it has been found in waterways, river fish and marine mammals. There is a law mandating a phase-out of PCB use by 2010, but wherever large transformers still using the liquid are found, neighborhoods have remained vigilant because of the correlation between these spills and cases of cancer and respiratory, immunological and dermatological infections.

The authorities are investigating the relationship between this pollutant and deaths in two provinces.