Public health officials in California have confirmed that three individuals in the town of Mammoth Lakes have tragically died from hantavirus. This virus, known for its serious health implications, was notably linked to the recent death of Betsy Arakawa, the wife of actor Gene Hackman, who passed away in February. In a statement released on Thursday, health officials from Mono County reported the third fatality due to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in this rural community nestled in the Eastern Sierra region of California, calling the situation both “tragic” and “alarming.”
Hantavirus is a relatively rare but serious virus primarily spread to humans through contact with rodents, particularly deer mice. The virus can be transmitted via the animals' urine, droppings, and saliva. Dr. Tom Boo, a public health officer for Mono County, expressed concern over the recent surge in cases, especially given the time of year. “The occurrence of three cases in a short period has me worried, especially this early in the year,” he stated, noting that such cases are typically more common in late spring and summer.
The most recent victim was identified as a young adult, but health officials are still investigating the method of infection. Dr. Boo mentioned that the deceased's home showed no signs of mouse activity, which raises questions about how the exposure occurred. “We observed some mice in the workplace, which is not unusual for indoor spaces this time of year in Mammoth Lakes,” Boo explained. “However, we haven’t identified any other activities in the weeks before illness that would have increased this person’s exposure to mice or their droppings.”
It has been noted that the population of deer mice in California's Eastern Sierra region is believed to be higher than normal this year, potentially increasing the risk of hantavirus exposure. This alarming trend has prompted health officials to issue warnings to residents and visitors about the dangers of hantavirus.
The latest death comes on the heels of the revelation that Betsy Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in late February. Hackman, who was present, tested negative for the virus, and an autopsy determined that his wife’s cause of death was linked to “hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with Alzheimer’s disease as a significant contributory factor.”
Although cases of hantavirus are relatively uncommon, they can have devastating effects on health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms often include fatigue, fever, muscle aches, coughing, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, the infection can progress to the lungs and become fatal.
Dr. Boo emphasized that there have been no indications that the three deceased individuals engaged in typical activities associated with hantavirus exposure, such as cleaning areas contaminated with mouse droppings or living in poorly ventilated spaces. He urged the community to remain vigilant about the presence of mice and to exercise caution around their droppings. “We’ve now gone about a month without any additional suspect cases, but remain concerned about the increase in activity,” Boo concluded.
