Three more deaths after Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa as rodent-borne virus spreads

Hantavirus Outbreak Strikes Mammoth Lakes, California

A recent outbreak of hantavirus, a potentially deadly rat-borne virus, has occurred in Mammoth Lakes, California, a town nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains. This incident follows earlier reports of fatalities linked to the virus, raising concerns within the community and prompting a public health alert. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), the severe illness associated with this virus, poses a significant health risk and is under close scrutiny by local health officials.

Understanding Hantavirus

Hantavirus is transmitted to humans through the inhalation of airborne particles from rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. Transmission can also occur via rodent bites or scratches. While some individuals may experience mild, flu-like symptoms, others can develop Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a severe and potentially fatal respiratory illness.

Recent Cases in Mono County

The Mono County Health and Human Services Public Health Division reported on Thursday, April 3rd, that several residents of Mammoth Lakes have been affected by HPS. These cases include fatalities, heightening public health concerns in the area.

Public Health Official Comments

Dr. Tom Boo, Mono County Public Health Officer, expressed serious concern regarding these recent cases. He noted the unexpected nature of the infections, as the individuals affected did not appear to have lifestyles typically associated with increased hantavirus exposure.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Public health advisories emphasize caution regarding deer mice, a known carrier of hantavirus. While rodents were not found in the homes of all affected individuals, preventative measures are crucial. Symptoms of hantavirus infection can manifest one to eight weeks post-exposure and may include:

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Muscle aches

• Elevated temperature

Residents and visitors to Mammoth Lakes are urged to take precautions to minimize potential exposure to rodents and their waste. Further information and guidance on hantavirus prevention are available from Mono County Public Health and Human Services.