3 People Dead From Same Virus That Killed Gene Hackman's Wife

Three people are dead from the same virus that killed Gene Hackman's wife, Betsy Arakawa, sparking concern among local residents.

Hackman's wife died from a rare virus that is spread by rodents. The Hollywood star and his wife were found dead in their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Feb. 26. While Hackman is believed to have died from “hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with Alzheimer’s disease as a significant contributory factor," his wife died from a rare illness. Arakawa, who was 65 years old, died from hantavirus. 

The virus, spread by rodents, can cause fatigue, fever, muscle aches, coughing and shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In severe cases, like Arakawa's, it can be fatal.

Tragically, three people in the town of Mammoth Lakes, California have died from the same illness.

Health officials in Mono County confirmed this week that three people had died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. 

The virus is typically spread by mice to humans through urine, saliva or droppings.

Dr. Tom Boo, a county public health officer, is worried.

“The occurrence of three cases in a short period has me worried, especially this early in the year,” he said in a statement.

While cases are rare, they are typically more prevalent later in the spring and summer. Multiple cases this early in April have sparked cause for concern.

The latest death in Mammoth Lakes, California is the third since February.

“The home had no evidence of mouse activity,” Boo said. “We observed some mice in the workplace, which is not unusual for indoor spaces this time of year in Mammoth Lakes. 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.”

Local authorities are urging people to be vigilant and careful about mice in the home.