Hantavirus claims Third Life in Mono County, California
Mono County, California, is grappling with a concerning outbreak of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). A third death, that of 26-year-old Rodrigo Becerra, an employee at Mammoth Mountain Inn, has been confirmed [[3]]. Becerra’s death occurred on March 6, sparking heightened awareness and concern within the small community.
The Human Cost
Rodrigo Becerra, who worked as a bellman at the Mammoth Mountain Inn, passed away from complications related to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. his sister, Mariela Becerra, told SFGate
that he had been feeling unwell for approximately two weeks prior to his death and had even sought medical treatment the night before he died.
this tragic event marks the third hantavirus-related fatality in Mono County as early February. The earlier death of Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, was also attributed to the virus [[2]].
public Health response
Dr. Tom Boo of Mono County Public Health expressed his concern in a statement earlier this month:
A third case of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), each of which has been fatal, is tragic and alarming.
Dr. Tom Boo,mono County Public Health
Public health officials are working to understand the source of the infections and to prevent further cases [[1]].
Workplace Exposure
While the exact source of Becerra’s infection remains unclear, health officials have investigated potential workplace exposures. David Andrews, the director of health and safety for Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, stated:
A very small amount of rodent droppings were found in the bell area and behind the front desk, very near the front entrance at Mammoth Mountain Inn (MMI). The trace amounts found weren’t concerning to health officials…We don’t have reason for concern about workplace exposure at MMI for our employees or guests.
David Andrews, Mammoth Mountain Ski Area
Despite these findings, mono County Health spokesperson Justin Caporusso noted that investigators found evidence of mice in the workplaces of all three individuals who succumbed to the virus this year. He clarified, Note that investigators found evidence of the presence of mice in the workplaces of each of these three people, but in no case did they find a gross infestation, a situation that would pose an obvious health risk.
Community Support and Remembrance
Despite the tragedy, Becerra’s family holds no ill will towards Mammoth Mountain. Mariela Becerra emphasized her brother’s deep connection to the community, stating that Mammoth was always such a special place to him.
The resort hosted a celebration of life in his honor, and a GoFundMe campaign has raised over $17,400 to support his family. According to his sister, This ski season he is sitting at the top of the Mammoth leaderboard with 96 days of skiing on the mountain he loved most. He was so excited to get to 100 days by his birthday.
