What You Need to Know About Hantavirus, the Disease that Killed Gene Hackman’s Wife

By: Guillermo Ramirez, MD, and Ruelle Champion

Legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, passed away within one week of each other last month in their New Mexico home. Arakawa, 65, died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which is a rare disease that affects the lungs.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is spread through contact with infected mice and rats, primarily their urine, feces, or saliva.

“Hantavirus is more prevalent in the Southwest region of the U.S.,” said Dr. Guillermo Ramirez, an infectious disease specialist at Jackson Medical Group. “If you’re experiencing concerning symptoms, always notify your doctor of recent travel to those areas and of any camping or lodging activities.”

Initial symptoms may appear one to eight weeks after interacting with an infected rodent. They include:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Chills

Additional symptoms, like shortness of breath, coughing, and a tight chest, can develop soon after. Since the virus resembles the flu, it’s important to mention exposure to rodents when seeing a doctor.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is treated by managing symptoms, staying hydrated, and getting rest. Since the disease can affect breathing, some patients may need supplemental oxygen.

Preventing hantavirus pulmonary syndrome starts with limiting exposure to rodents. Here’re a few common safety practices to follow:

• Block access to small openings into your home.
• Set traps for rodents.
• Move woodpiles or compost bins away from your living spaces.
• Clean up rodent-infested areas safely by using gloves, a mask, disinfecting products, and washing your hands when you’re done.

Dr. Guillermo Ramirez is an infectious disease specialist with Jackson Medical Group. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ramirez, call 786-585-4JMG(564).