Hantavirus Outbreak in California: 3 Deaths Linked to Gene Hackman's Wife's Passing

Health officials are on high alert following a sudden spike in hantavirus-related deaths, including the passing of Betsy Arakawa, wife of renowned actor Gene Hackman. Her death in February at the couple’s New Mexico residence was followed by three additional fatalities in Mammoth Lakes, a quiet town in rural California.

A Rare Virus Gains National Attention:

Betsy Arakawa’s death drew attention to a rare but often fatal illness known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Health authorities in Mono County, California, confirmed that three residents recently succumbed to the same disease. The cluster of deaths has raised serious concern among medical professionals. “Seeing multiple cases in such a short span is very concerning,” stated Dr. Tom Boo, the county’s top public health official.

It took nearly two weeks for officials to confirm Arakawa's cause of death, highlighting the diagnostic challenges of this rare infection.

What is Hantavirus and How Is It Spread?

Hantavirus is transmitted by rodents, specifically by deer mice in North America. Humans become infected with the virus by contact with infected rodent urine, feces, or saliva, which is especially dangerous when these are disturbed and suspended in the air. Activities like cleaning out infested spaces or vacuuming in contaminated areas can significantly raise the risk.

The virus is not transmitted from person to person, and currently, there is no known cure. However, early diagnosis and medical intervention can greatly improve survival odds.

California Cases Under Investigation:

The recent California victims began experiencing symptoms in February. Investigations into the cases suggest different scenarios of exposure.

• In one case, an individual had vacuumed an area later found to contain mouse droppings.

• Another lived in a home with signs of rodent infestation.

• The third victim's exposure is a mystery, with no visible source found at home or in the workplace.

Curiously, none of the victims had reportedly been involved in the usual high-risk behaviors such as cleaning poorly ventilated storage areas or attics.

Seasonal Anomaly Sparks Questions:

Though hantavirus cases are normally reported during warmer months, primarily late spring through summer, the appearance of multiple cases this early in the year is abnormal. Mono County, though familiar with the virus, had not reported a case since 2019. Since 1993, there have been 27 reported infections in the county, and most of these have occurred during warmer seasons.

But this year, there was a visible increase in rodent infestation indoors that might have helped to trigger the sudden surge, experts say.

Symptoms and Risks:

Hantavirus infections usually start with flu-like symptoms like fever, tiredness, body pains, and nausea. As the disease advances, it may cause severe respiratory complications, which can lead to potentially lethal lung problems. The CDC reports that the fatality rate of HPS is around 35–40%, so early diagnosis is crucial.

Preventive Measures and Public Advisory:

In order to reduce risk, public health authorities advise against contact with rodents and their feces. If cleaning areas suspected of infestation, individuals should wear gloves and use disinfectants instead of sweeping or vacuuming, which can aerosolize the virus.

The CDC initiated close surveillance for hantavirus in 1993 after the outbreak in Four Corners region of the US Southwest. Almost all U.S. cases were reported since then in western states, including 78 infections documented in California through 2022.

A Tragic Chapter for the Hackman Family:

While health experts continue to investigate the origins of the current outbreak, the situation is also marked by personal tragedy. Following Betsy Arakawa’s death from HPS, Gene Hackman passed away shortly afterward due to heart-related issues compounded by Alzheimer’s. Their pet dog, Zinna, was found deceased from neglect, having suffered starvation and dehydration in the wake of the couple’s deaths.

References:

1. The Hill. 2025. "California Town Reports Third Fatality Related to Rare Virus Linked to Death of Gene Hackman’s Wife." The Hill, April 3, 2025. https://thehill.com/homenews/nexstar_media_wire/5235023-california-town-reports-third-fatality-related-to-rare-virus-linked-to-death-of-gene-hackmans-wife/.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)