Rodent-Borne Hantavirus Kills Betsy Arakawa, Gene Hackman Dies

Why in the News?

Veteran actor Gene Hackman and his pianist wife Betsy Arakawa were found dead in their Santa Fe home. Arakawa succumbed to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a rodent-borne virus, while Hackman, suffering from Alzheimer’s, died later due to heart disease.

Rodent-Borne Hantavirus Kills Betsy Arakawa, Gene Hackman Dies

What is Hantavirus?

  • Hantavirus is a family of viruses carried by rodents, spreading through their urine, feces, and saliva.
  • It does not transmit from person to person, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • The specific disease caused by the virus varies based on the rodent host and region.
  • Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is common in the Western Hemisphere, mainly spread by deer mice.
  • Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) is prevalent in Europe and Asia, with the Hantaan and Dobrava strains being the most dangerous.

Details of Hackman & Arakawa’s Deaths

  • The couple was found dead in their Santa Fe home on February 26 by a caretaker.
  • Arakawa, 61, likely died around February 11 due to HPS, possibly contracted from rodent-infested areas on their property.
  • Hackman, 95, who had Alzheimer’s, succumbed to heart disease days later, possibly unaware of his wife’s passing.
  • Their dog also perished due to starvation.

Symptoms & Treatment of HPS:

  • Symptoms appear 1 to 8 weeks after exposure, starting with fatigue, fever, and muscle aches.
  • As the infection progresses, fluid accumulation in the lungs causes severe respiratory distress.
  • The mortality rate is 38%–50% for strains found in the southwestern US.
  • There is no cure for HPS, but early detection and supportive care can improve survival.
  •  Experts recommend using N95 masks, gloves, and disinfectants when cleaning areas contaminated by rodent droppings.