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Hantavirus isn’t something most people think about often, but after Gene Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, passed away from the disease in February, it made headlines for weeks. Now, it's back in the news because two new cases were confirmed in Nevada this week.
© Getty ImagesOn June 10, Nevada health officials reported two cases of hantavirus and issued a warning: be extra careful if you’ve been around any signs of rodents. That means places like sheds, barns, trailers, garages, and cabins where deer mice have nested or left droppings. The virus is rare, but when it hits, it can be deadly, as we tragically saw with Betsy.
“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.” Arizona offered a similar warning back in July 2024.
© GettySome of the tips the press release included are airing out enclosed spaces for at least 30 minutes before cleaning, and never sweeping or vacuuming droppings (you’ll just stir up dangerous particles). Instead, spray with disinfectant like a 10% bleach mix, let it sit, then wipe with disposable towels: gloves and an N95 mask are a must.
Keep things tidy and food sealed so you’re not inviting mice in the first place, and clear out woodpiles, brush, or anything that could double as a nest. Seal up gaps around doors and windows, and use natural deterrents like vinegar, ammonia, or coffee grounds around the outside.
The virus is rare, but it’s serious. Symptoms to look out for are muscle aches, fever, coughing, and tightness in the chest. The CDC stresses that early medical attention can be life-saving.
Betsy's experience
© GettyBetsy was found dead alongside Hackman in their New Mexico home on February 26. She was 65. While the couple’s deaths were initially reported without much detail, new autopsy results confirmed that she died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
According to the Associated Press, her lungs were heavy and full of fluid - a classic sign of the virus. She had been dealing with symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath in the days before, even reaching out to doctors and researching online about flu-like symptoms. She’d booked an appointment for February 12 - but never showed up.
Health inspectors later discovered rodent nests and droppings scattered across their property, including sheds and garages. That’s how hantavirus spreads - through tiny particles in contaminated droppings, urine, or saliva from infected rodents, especially deer mice.
© GettyIt’s a heartbreaking situation made even worse by the context. Hackman, 95, was in the late stages of Alzheimer’s and dependent on Betsy for daily care. His toxicology report showed signs of starvation - he likely hadn’t eaten in days.
Now, with more confirmed cases popping up, especially in rural parts of the Southwest, officials are reminding people to be cautious.
