Health officials in Mono County, California, have confirmed three deaths linked to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). All cases occurred in the town of Mammoth Lakes since February.
Rare Virus Spreads Through Rodent Exposure
The hantavirus spreads through contact with infected deer mice or their droppings. It is not contagious between people. One of the victims had visible rodent activity at home. Investigators found no signs of infestation in the other two homes.
In the latest case, mice were seen at the victim’s workplace. Officials are still unsure of the exact exposure point.
Connection to Hackman Family Tragedy
Earlier this year, officials in New Mexico reported that Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, died from the virus. Maintenance staff found the couple’s bodies in their Santa Fe home in late February. Hackman reportedly died days later from heart disease, worsened by Alzheimer’s.
Unusual Surge in Cases Raises Concern
Dr. Tom Boo, Mono County’s public health officer, expressed concern over the sudden rise in cases.
“Three infections in such a short time is concerning, especially this early in the year,” Boo said.
Typically, hantavirus cases occur during late spring and summer. Officials haven’t seen a new case in over a month but remain alert.
Victims Did Not Take High-Risk Actions
None of the three victims had engaged in known high-risk activities, like cleaning enclosed, rodent-infested spaces. One had vacuumed an area later found to contain mouse droppings. Stirring up contaminated dust can release the virus into the air.
The most recent victim was a young adult. Their identity has not been made public.
Mammoth Lakes Faces Higher Rodent Activity
Mammoth Lakes sits in the eastern Sierra Nevada and has a population of around 7,000. It’s known for outdoor recreation, including skiing and hiking.
Officials believe the local deer mouse population is higher than normal this year. This may be increasing the risk of hantavirus exposure in the area.
Hantavirus in California: A Rare but Serious Threat
Mono County has recorded 27 hantavirus cases since 1993, more than any other county in California. Fewer than 100 cases have occurred statewide since 1980. Each year, the state sees about two to three cases. In 2024, a person died from the virus in Sierra County.
Symptoms of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
Hantavirus symptoms can appear one to five weeks after exposure. Early signs resemble the flu and include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Stomach pain
After a few days, the infection can affect the lungs. Symptoms may then include:
- Shortness of breath
- Dry cough
- Chest tightness
The disease can progress rapidly. About one in three infected people die from it.
How to Prevent Hantavirus Exposure
Health experts recommend the following steps to avoid infection:
- Seal holes larger than a pencil in your home.
- Store food securely in rodent-proof containers.
- Do not vacuum or sweep rodent waste.
- Ventilate areas for at least 30 minutes before cleaning.
- Wear gloves and an N-95 mask when handling contaminated spaces.
- Use disinfectant or a bleach solution and let it sit for five minutes before wiping.
- Set snap traps, not glue or live traps, to control mice.
Vehicles and outdoor storage areas can also harbor infected rodents. Clean these spaces carefully and follow safety guidelines.
NEW: California health officials warn of deadly Hantavirus, a disease linked to rodent droppings
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