New Mexico officials held a press conference Friday to provide updates on the shocking deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, whose bodies were discovered in their home on Feb. 26.
Results from an autopsy performed the next day revealed that Arakawa — a classical pianist — died at the age of 65 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), which is linked to rodents.
Officials identified signs of rodent entry in the couple’s house, which could have led to the hantavirus spreading to Arakawa. Testing for hantavirus was negative for Hackman.
Meanwhile, the legendary actor’s cause of death was hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with “evidence of advanced Alzheimer’s disease” being a significant contributory factor. He was 95.
It’s believed Hackman was alone with his dead wife for seven days before he died.
New Mexico Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Heather Jarrell said during the press conference that it’s “quite possible” Hackman didn’t know Arakawa was dead given his mental state.
What causes HPS?
According to the American Lung Association, HPS is a rare but potentially life-threatening viral illness transmitted to humans from the infected urine, droppings or saliva of certain species of rats and mice.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adds that HPS can also spread through a bite or scratch by these rodents.
The ALA notes that most cases of HPS in the US have occurred in the Southwest among people who are exposed to these rodents at their home or work, with the CDC elaborating that there have been 728 cases identified between 1993 and 2017.
What are symptoms of HPS?
Both organizations say the symptoms of HPS include chills, fever, headache, muscle aches, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, which can progress to coughing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest due to fluid filling the lungs.
Per the CDC, symptoms usually start to show one to eight weeks after contact with an infected rodent, with the ALA pointing out that the illness can be rapidly fatal if not identified and treated promptly.
How is HPS diagnosed?
Early symptoms of HPS are easily confused with influenza, so a diagnosis can be difficult, the CDC notes, adding that those who suspect HPS should seek medical attention immediately and mention potential rodent exposure.
What is treatment for HPS?
HPS patients should receive supportive care, including rest, hydration and even intubation if breathing is difficult, according to the CDC.
What is the prognosis of HPS?
The CDC reports that 38 percent of people who develop respiratory symptoms may die from the disease.
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