What's happened
An environmental assessment of Gene Hackman's property revealed a rodent infestation linked to hantavirus, which contributed to the death of his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Hackman, 95, died shortly after from heart disease. The findings raise concerns about hantavirus exposure in the area.
What's behind the headline?
Hantavirus Concerns
- The recent findings highlight the dangers of hantavirus, which can be fatal and is primarily spread through rodent droppings.
- With a 41% fatality rate in New Mexico, the implications of this assessment are significant for public health, especially in rural areas where rodent exposure is more common.
- The timing of this report, following the deaths of two high-profile individuals, brings increased attention to the risks associated with rodent infestations in homes.
- This situation underscores the importance of preventive measures against hantavirus, particularly in areas with known rodent populations.
Public Health Implications
- The California Department of Public Health emphasizes the need for awareness and prevention strategies to mitigate hantavirus risks.
- The assessment's findings may prompt local health officials to increase public awareness campaigns about hantavirus prevention, especially as warmer months approach when rodent activity typically increases.
- The tragic deaths of Hackman and Arakawa serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by seemingly innocuous wildlife in residential areas.
What the papers say
The Independent reported that Hackman, 95, died of heart disease shortly after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, who died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. The California Department of Public Health noted the importance of preventing hantavirus infections, stating, "The best way to prevent hantavirus infection is to keep wild rodents... out of your home."
The Guardian highlighted the environmental assessment conducted on March 5, revealing rodent infestations in outbuildings and garages, which were not included in the initial death report. Andrew Pulver noted that the assessment aimed to ensure safety for first responders and family members who accessed the property.
According to the NY Post, the assessment found rodent feces in multiple structures on the property, raising concerns about hantavirus exposure. The report emphasized the need for caution when cleaning rodent habitats, as hantavirus can present flu-like symptoms that may take weeks to manifest.
How we got here
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were found dead in their Santa Fe home in February 2025. Arakawa's death was attributed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Hackman died from heart disease. An environmental assessment conducted in March revealed rodent infestations on the property.
Go deeper
- What are the symptoms of hantavirus?
- How can I prevent hantavirus exposure?
- What should I do if I find rodents in my home?
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Eugene Allen Hackman is an American retired actor, novelist, and United States Marine. In a career that has spanned more than six decades, Hackman has won two Academy Awards, four Golden Globes, one Screen Actors Guild Award, and two BAFTAs.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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New Mexico is a state in the Southwestern region of the United States of America; its capital is Santa Fe, which was founded in 1610 as capital of Nuevo México, while its largest city is Albuquerque with its accompanying metropolitan area.