New Mexico authorities recently confirmed the causes of death for legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, following an investigation into their passing at their Santa Fe home.
As per media reports, Hackman, 95, was found dead on February 26, though evidence suggests he passed away around February 18, as indicated by the last activity recorded on his pacemaker. An autopsy confirmed he died of heart disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease as a contributing factor.
Meanwhile, Arakawa, 65, had died several days earlier from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare but often fatal virus. Notably, Hackman tested negative for hantavirus. Their deaths, especially Arakawa's condition, have drawn attention to this little-known disease and its potentially severe consequences. Keep reading as we delve deeper into understanding the hantavirus.
What Is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus refers to a group of viruses that can cause severe diseases in humans. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus is primarily transmitted by rodents, such as mice and rats, through their urine, feces, and saliva.
Hantavirus infection occurs when individuals inhale virus particles released into the air from rodent droppings or nesting materials. While rare, the disease can have devastating effects on the respiratory system and, in some cases, lead to death.
There are two major illnesses associated with hantavirus:
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS): Found mainly in North and South America, this condition causes severe lung complications and is the primary hantavirus-related disease in the U.S.
Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS): This syndrome, more common in Europe and Asia, leads to kidney damage and bleeding disorders.
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How is Hantavirus transmitted?
Hantavirus spreads through direct or indirect contact with infected rodents. The most common ways people contract the virus include:
Inhaling airborne particles contaminated with rodent droppings or urine (the most frequent mode of transmission).
Consuming food or water tainted with rodent excretions.
Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Rarely, through rodent bites or scratches.
Person-to-person transmission has only been observed with the Andes virus, a specific hantavirus strain found in South America.
What happens to the body?
Once hantavirus enters the body, it targets the lungs, attacking tiny blood vessels called capillaries. The virus causes these vessels to leak, filling the lungs with fluid—a condition known as pulmonary edema, as reported by the CDC. This leads to severe respiratory distress and can quickly escalate into life-threatening complications.
In cases of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, the virus affects the kidneys, causing bleeding, kidney failure, and other systemic issues.
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Symptoms of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms typically develop one to three weeks after exposure and occur in two phases:
Early Stage (Lasts a few days)
Fever and chills
Muscle aches
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Stomach pain
Advanced stage (Severe respiratory distress)
Persistent cough
Shortness of breath
Fluid buildup in the lungs
Low blood pressure
Irregular heartbeat
Without timely medical intervention, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome can be fatal.
Preventing Hantavirus exposure
While there is no vaccine for hantavirus, taking precautions can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Seal up homes and buildings to prevent rodent entry.
Use protective gear (such as gloves and masks) when cleaning rodent-infested areas.
Avoid sweeping or vacuuming droppings directly, as this can release the virus into the air. Instead, use disinfectant and a damp cloth to clean affected areas.
Store food securely to prevent rodent contamination.
Keep outdoor spaces clear of debris that may attract rodents.
