Matías Uribe Nova died after contracting a virus carried by rodents. (Image: Jam Press)
A 22-year-old footballer has tragically died after contracting a rare virus carried by rodents – the same rare disease that claimed the life of Hollywood legend Gene Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa. Matias Uribe Nova was rushed to A&E in Chile following symptoms of « altered consciousness » and low blood pressure.
The Club Deportivo Juventud Iberia player had previously sought help at an urgent care centre due to gastrointestinal symptoms, fever, and a headache. During his second visit, laboratory tests and a chest X-ray were conducted. Doctors suspected a case of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and requested a transfer from the hospital in Lirquen to a larger facility in Talcahuano.
However, while waiting for that transfer, Nova suffered a cardiac arrest and, despite receiving CPR, passed away before he could receive the urgent treatment he needed on Saturday, February 7.
Following his death, the Biobio regional Health Authority confirmed the presence of the virus, marking the first case in the region this year. It is believed that Nova contracted the hantavirus while volunteering to assist people affected by major wildfires in the area.
Hantaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause diseases such as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. They are primarily spread through contact with rodents, particularly exposure to their urine, droppings, or saliva.
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Andrea Gutierrez Aravena, head of the authority’s epidemiology unit, explained: « We have launched an epidemiological and environmental investigation to determine the factors that contributed to the infection, the duration of exposure, and other relevant details, taking into account that the virus’ incubation period can last up to 45 days before symptoms appear. »
The virus notoriously took the life of Hollywood icon Gene Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, who was discovered dead at their Santa Fe residence in February last year.
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Gene Hackman and his wife. (Image: Getty)
Matías Uribe Nova played football in Chile. (Image: Jam Press)
She was found alongside the actor, who suffered from advanced Alzheimer’s disease and is believed to have passed away approximately a week after his partner, from natural causes, including severe cardiovascular disease, at the age of 95.
Nova played football for Club Deportivo Juventud Iberia, an amateur side based in Penco, where his body was laid to rest.
The club issued a heartfelt tribute, writing: « Matias never showed a bad expression, never got angry, had an enormous heart, and a light that seemed to come from somewhere special.
« He was truly remarkable, touched so many hearts, and today everyone realises how deeply he reached each and every one.
« When the wildfires broke out, he was clearly among the first to go and help – supporting those affected in his beloved club and even people he didn’t know.
« He went to help without asking for details, giving everything he had, truly everything, even to the ultimate extreme… giving his life.
« Even if it’s hard to grasp now, Matías gave his life for those who needed it most during this disaster, and God will reward him infinitely alongside his family.
« Fly high, dear Mati. We will always remember you. »
Nova’s funeral took place in Penco on Monday, 9 February. He leaves behind his family, including his sister.
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