After Gene Hackman’s wife, California man succumbs to rare hantavirus: What you need to know about this deadly disease

After actor Gene Hackman's wife Betsy Arakawa, a 26-year-old California man died of a rare rodent disease, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. 

 

Reportedly, the health officials had recovered rat droppings at his workplace following the untimely death of Rodrigo Becerra. Becerra had fallen seriously sick and was on antibiotics the night before he was found dead in his Mammoth Lakes home. 

 

The 26-year-old worked at Mammoth Mountain Inn as a bellhop. Becerra's family told SFGATE that his death took place on March 6. 

 

What is Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)? 

 

HPS is a serious respiratory disease caused by hantaviruses, which is typically transmitted through contact with rodents or their waste including their urine, droppings and saliva. 

 

Hantaviruses can cause two syndromes. The one which is in the Western Hemisphere can cause HPS, while Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is commonly found in Europe and Asia. HFRS can affect your kidney function and in severe cases, dialysis might be required.

 

What are HPS symptoms? 

 

HPS is a severe and fatal disease. Symptoms of the HPS start in one to eight weeks after contact with the virus or infected rodent. 

 

Symptoms include: 

 

Fatigue

Fever

Muscle aches especially in the thighs, hips, back and shoulders

Headaches

Dizziness

Chills 

Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain

 

Patients might also experience shortness of breath, tightness in the chest and coughing after the initial phase. 

 

Prevention tips

 

1. Avoid contact with rodent urine, droppings, saliva and nesting materials. 

 

2. Be sure to maintain a clean environment if you notice mice or rats around the house. 

 

3. Place traps in and around your home in order to decrease rodent infestation. 

 

4. Seal holes and gaps in your home or garage to keep rodents from entering these spaces. 

Health