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When legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsky Arakwa were both found dead in their home in February, police deemed the incident “suspicious.” Ultimately, it was deemed that Hackman, 95, died of a combination of natural causes, while the 65-year-old Arakwa had contracted a rare disease named Hantavirus.
ABC News then reported that hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is a “rare disease transmitted through rodent urine, droppings or saliva.” It “initially causes flu-like symptoms that can progress to more severe illness where people have trouble breathing.”
Nevada Health Officials Warn Of Virus That Killed Gene Hackman’s Wife Betsy Arakwa
A new report from People now states that the rare rodent-borne virus is spreading throughout the United States.
The report claims that the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services and the Nevada Department of Wildlife confirmed two cases of the virus in the state, urging residents to take more precautions.
“We urge people to be aware of any signs of rodent activity and to take precautions to reduce the risk of exposure to hantavirus,” Melissa Bullock, state medical epidemiologist, said in a press release. “Anyone who has been in contact with rodents, nests or droppings and subsequently develops symptoms consistent with hantavirus pulmonary syndrome should see a health care provider immediately.”
Symptoms of the virus “include fever, fatigue and muscle aches — especially in the thighs, hips, back and shoulders — coughing and shortness of breath. Patients might also experience tightness in the chest as fluid builds up in the lungs. They typically appear one to eight weeks after contact with the infected rodent.”
Officials state that it is more common in warm weather, as people frequent areas where rodents have nested or left droppings. Thankfully, it sounds as if the disease has remained confined to Nevada as of now. Additionally, the disease is curable if caught and treated early.