A rare but deadly disease spread by rats is experiencing a surge in cases across the US. The disease, hantavirus, has claimed several lives, including that of Betsy Arakawa, the wife of actor Gene Hackman, who died from it just four months ago.
According to health officials, there have been five reported cases of hantavirus in Arizona so far this year, and another case was recently confirmed in Nevada. The disease is typically spread through inhalation of particles from infected rodent droppings or urine, as well as direct contact with contaminated surfaces.
To reduce the risk of infection, health experts recommend keeping your home tidy, storing food and trash in sealed containers, and wearing gloves when handling rodent droppings. They also advise sealing holes and openings to keep rodents out and ventilating affected areas after cleaning up rodent waste.
Hantavirus can cause severe respiratory illness, with symptoms including fever, fatigue, and muscle aches. Treatment focuses on supportive care, but the virus has a high mortality rate, claiming nearly 40% of those who contract it.
With over 864 reported cases in the US between 1993 and 2022, hantavirus remains a significant public health concern. States with the highest number of cases include New Mexico, Colorado, and California.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/07/09/health/once-extremely-rare-disease-caused-by-rats-is-on-the-rise