Hantavirus: What's the rare disease from rodent droppings that led to the death of Gene Hackman’s wife?

Actor Gene Hackman died of heart disease last month, while his wife, Betsy Arakawa, passed away a week earlier due to hantavirus, a rare disease linked to rodent droppings. Authorities discovered their bodies on February 26 at their home in a gated community in Santa Fe.

Couple found in separate locations

Hackman, 95, was found near the home’s entryway, while Arakawa, 65, was discovered in a bathroom, according to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that Arakawa’s last recorded activity was on February 11, when she visited a grocery store, pharmacy, and food store before returning home.

What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus is primarily reported in spring and summer, typically when individuals come into contact with rodent droppings in enclosed spaces. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the virus can cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a severe lung infection that can be fatal. The illness starts with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, which may progress to breathing difficulties as fluid accumulates in the lungs. The CDC reports that about one-third of cases with respiratory symptoms result in death.


This is the first confirmed hantavirus case in New Mexico this year. The virus does not spread from person to person.

Hantavirus presence in New Mexico

Dr. Erin Phipps, a veterinarian with the New Mexico Department of Health, said the state has reported between one and seven cases annually over the past five years. The virus is most commonly found in the Four Corners region, where Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico meet, according to the New York Times.

At the couple’s property, health officials discovered evidence of rodent activity in some structures but found little risk of hantavirus exposure inside the main residence.

(Inputs from AP)