Betsy Arakawa Dies from Rare Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, Raising Awareness of Deadly Disease
Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. The disease, spread by rodents, has a high fatality rate and no vaccine or cure.
Overview
Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but deadly illness with a mortality rate between 38%-50%. Hantaviruses spread through rodent excrement, particularly from deer mice, and pose a significant public health threat in the Southwest. Reports indicate that Arakawa may have contracted the virus from a rodent infestation near their New Mexico home. Symptoms develop after a one to eight-week incubation period, initially resembling flu-like conditions, but can rapidly progress to severe respiratory distress. Health officials emphasize the importance of preventative measures and awareness about hantavirus.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
Analysis unavailable for this viewpoint.
Articles (4)
FAQ
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is a rare but deadly disease caused by viruses transmitted through rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. It is typically spread by inhaling aerosolized particles from contaminated rodent waste.
Symptoms of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome start with flu-like conditions such as fever, muscle aches, and headaches. They can progress to severe respiratory distress within one to eight weeks after exposure.
Prevention involves sealing rodent entry points, using rodent-proof containers for food, reducing nesting materials around homes, and safely cleaning up rodent droppings with gloves and masks.
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is rare in the U.S., with most cases reported in western states. The deer mouse is the primary carrier of the virus in these regions.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.