Betsy Arakawa: Gene Hackman’s Wife Takes Charge of Health Amid Flu and COVID Concerns

Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, sought medical advice online in the days leading to her death. She looked up symptoms related to flu and COVID-19, probing questions like whether COVID could cause dizziness or nosebleeds. According to police records, she conducted these searches shortly before passing away from hantavirus, a rare and severe respiratory illness.

At 65, Betsy’s health concerns intensified around February 10, 2023. She canceled a massage appointment, mentioning Gene’s flu-like symptoms despite testing negative for COVID. Betsy also ordered oxygen canisters from Amazon, signaling her worries about respiratory support.

Tragically, both Betsy and Gene, who was 95 and suffered from Alzheimer’s, passed away shortly after. Their bodies were discovered more than a week later in their New Mexico home, revealing a shocking scene of neglect and unanswered calls for help. Betsy had called a health clinic for assistance on February 12, but no treatment was provided.

Authorities have linked Betsy’s death to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, contracted from rodent droppings in their home. Reports noted that nests and dead rodents were found nearby, highlighting the dangers of living in affected areas. In fact, hantavirus can lead to severe respiratory issues, often mistaken for flu at first.

Gene Hackman’s death followed on February 18, marked by issues of severe heart disease and advanced Alzheimer’s. Experts suggest that his Alzheimer’s may have impaired his awareness of his wife’s condition, contributing to the tragic outcome.

The discovery of the couple’s bodies raised serious concerns, prompting a dive into their living conditions. Unfortunately, one of their dogs died from starvation, highlighting the neglect surrounding them. The situation was further complicated as their children attempted to block the release of investigation files, caught between wanting privacy and abiding by public information laws in New Mexico.

State officials, like Santa Fe County manager Gregory Shaffer, expressed the difficulty of handling such a sensitive matter. They were bound by the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act, which required transparency. However, the need for privacy during this painful time for the family was equally apparent.

This heartbreaking incident echoes a wider issue concerning public health and awareness. In recent years, studies have shown a rise in hantavirus cases, particularly in areas with larger rodent populations. According to the CDC, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome strikes about 30% of those infected, often leading to severe respiratory distress. Early recognition of symptoms can be life-saving, yet, as seen in this case, many may overlook early signs.

The responses on social media reflect a mixture of grief and outrage regarding the lack of awareness about hantavirus risks. Conversations emphasize the importance of education on zoonotic diseases, especially in rural areas where contact with wildlife is more common.

For further information on hantavirus and its potential impacts, the CDC offers valuable resources and safety information here.

This tragic story emphasizes the need for better health awareness and community resources to prevent such devastating outcomes in the future.

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