Hantavirus caused three recent deaths in California. Here's what to know about the virus

Los Angeles Times - Apr 10th, 2025

Three individuals in Mammoth Lakes have recently died after contracting hantavirus, a rare but deadly disease that attacks the lungs. This development has raised concerns among public health officials about the spread of the virus, especially following the death of Betsy Arakawa, Gene Hackman's wife, earlier this year. Dr. Heather Jarrell, chief medical examiner in New Mexico, noted the high mortality rate of 38% to 50% among those infected in the American Southwest. The virus spreads via urine, feces, or saliva of wild rodents like deer mice, which are prevalent in California. All three victims in Mammoth Lakes experienced symptoms starting in February, with evidence of mice present in their workspaces, highlighting the increased risk of exposure due to high deer mouse populations this year.

Mono County, home to Mammoth Lakes, has recorded 27 hantavirus cases since 1993, the highest in California, although Los Angeles County rarely sees cases. The outbreak underscores the importance of preventing rodent infestations in both rural and urban areas, particularly in seldom-used buildings. Public health officials recommend measures such as setting up snap traps and safely cleaning up waste to mitigate the risk of infection. While there is no specific treatment for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, early medical intervention in an ICU can improve survival chances. This situation emphasizes the need for awareness and preventive actions during peak seasons to limit the spread of this severe respiratory disease.

Public Health Gene Hackman Betsy Arakawa Hantavirus Mammoth Lakes Rodent Borne Disease Deer Mice

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.2

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a timely and clear account of recent hantavirus-related deaths in Mammoth Lakes, linking them to broader public health concerns. It effectively raises awareness about hantavirus transmission and prevention, serving the public interest. However, the piece could benefit from more diverse perspectives, greater transparency in sourcing, and additional verification of certain claims. While the story is generally accurate and readable, its impact could be enhanced by incorporating personal stories or expert opinions. Overall, the article succeeds in informing readers about a relevant health issue but could improve in areas of balance and source quality.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports the recent hantavirus-related deaths in Mammoth Lakes and links them to a broader public health concern. The claim that Gene Hackman's wife, Betsy Arakawa, died from hantavirus earlier this year is consistent with the details provided, although further verification of her death details is necessary. The mortality rate of 38% to 50% for hantavirus infections in the American Southwest is a specific figure that requires confirmation from authoritative sources. The transmission method of hantavirus and its association with deer mice is correctly described, aligning with known scientific information. However, the story could benefit from additional verification of the deer mouse population levels in Mammoth Lakes and the historical hantavirus cases in Mono County.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the recent hantavirus cases and public health concerns, providing a detailed account of the situation in Mammoth Lakes. However, it lacks perspectives from individuals or families affected by the virus, which could add depth to the narrative. The article does include quotes from public health officials, offering a professional viewpoint, but it could be more balanced by incorporating opinions from independent experts or community members. The absence of these perspectives may lead to an imbalanced presentation that heavily relies on official statements.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, providing a logical flow of information from the recent deaths to broader public health concerns. The language is straightforward, making the complex topic of hantavirus accessible to a general audience. The inclusion of specific details, such as symptoms and prevention measures, enhances the clarity and educational value of the piece. However, the article could benefit from a clearer distinction between verified facts and statements that require further confirmation.

Source quality

The story cites public health officials and medical examiners as primary sources, which are generally reliable for health-related information. However, the article does not specify the sources of some key claims, such as the exact mortality rate or the historical case count in Mono County. This lack of detailed source attribution weakens the overall credibility of the piece. Including a wider range of sources, such as academic studies or independent experts, could enhance the reliability and depth of the reporting.

Transparency

The article provides a basic explanation of hantavirus transmission and symptoms, which helps readers understand the context. However, it lacks transparency in explaining how certain figures, such as the mortality rate, were obtained. The story does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or the methodology behind the data presented. Greater transparency in these areas would help readers assess the impartiality and accuracy of the information.