The rare virus responsible for the death of Jean Hackman’s wife also claimed three lives in a California town

Three individuals from Mammoth Lake town in California have tragically succumbed to the hantavirus, with one victim being the wife of actor Jean Hackman who passed away in February.

According to Mono County health officials, the most recent death from Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in the eastern Sierra region has been described as “tragic” and causing great concern.

Hantavirus is a rare virus that is transmitted to humans from rodents, primarily mice, through their urine, feces, and saliva.

Dr. Tom Boo, the county public health officer, expressed worry over the sudden increase in cases, stating that cases of Hantavirus are typically seen in the spring or later summer months.

The most recent death occurred in early February in Lake Mammoth, and health officials are still investigating how the young adults were infected.

Deer mice are prevalent in the East Sierra region of California, and their increased numbers this year may heighten the risk of exposure to the hantavirus.

Last month, it was revealed that Betsy Arakawa, the wife of Jean Hackman, had died from Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Hackman himself tested negative for the virus.

Hantavirus symptoms include fatigue, fever, muscle pain, cough, and difficulty breathing, and severe cases can be fatal, affecting the lungs.

Dr. Boo emphasized the importance of being cautious around mice, being mindful of their presence, and paying close attention to cleanliness indoors.

“Although we haven’t seen any new suspected cases in the past month, we remain vigilant due to the increased mouse activity,” Dr. Boo stated.