The wife of actor Gene Hackman, Betsy Hackman, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in New Mexico, where she and her husband resided. This virus, transmitted by rodents like rats and mice, has also claimed the lives of three individuals in Mammoth Lakes, California.
The tragic news of a third HPS-related death in Mammoth Lakes was confirmed by the Mono County Health and Human Services Public Health Division on April 3. Dr. Tom Boo, the county’s Public Health Officer, expressed concern over the unexpected spread of the virus, noting that the deceased individuals likely contracted it during routine daily activities, either at home or in the workplace.
Symptoms of HPS typically manifest within one to eight weeks after contact with an infected rodent, with initial signs including fatigue, fever, and muscle aches. Late symptoms may include coughing and shortness of breath.
It is crucial to remain vigilant around rodents and their waste to prevent the spread of this rare but serious disease.
Gene is thought to have passed away a few days later due to a combination of severe heart disease, high blood pressure, and advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Jarrell mentioned that since the last activity on Gene’s pacemaker was recorded on Feb. 17 and he had no food in his stomach at the time of his passing, it is logical to infer that he died the next day. There were no indications of dehydration. Initially believed to have died on Feb. 11, it was found that Betsy contacted a medical concierge service on Feb. 12, leading to a revision of the timeline. You can read the original article on People.
