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Bornavirus: Death in Bavaria – health experts alerted!
A man in Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm died of Borna virus; Transmission routes, protective measures and study results are explained.
Bornavirus: Death in Bavaria – health experts alerted!
A tragic incident has shaken the community of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm in Upper Bavaria: a man died as a result of a Borna virus infection caused by the Borna Disease Virus 1 (BoDV-1). Another sick person is currently being treated. The Borna virus is suspected of being spread through the excretions of tree shrews. These small animals excrete the virus through urine, feces and saliva.
Close contact points to the virus
As noted in a report by LR Online, the exact route of transmission to humans remains unclear. However, researchers suspect that transmission via contaminated food or water as well as through smear infection via contaminated soil is possible. It is strongly recommended to avoid contact with tree shrews and their droppings. Particular care should be taken not to touch live or dead animals with bare hands.
The Borna virus has been proven to be transmissible to humans since 2018 and often leads to severe, often fatal brain inflammation. Since 2020, such illnesses have also been reportable. According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), up to six acute cases of BoDV-1 encephalitis are reported every year, most of which occur in Bavaria.
Areas of increased risk
The Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine has identified endemic areas for the Borna virus in Germany, which include not only Bavaria, but also parts of Baden-Württemberg, Brandenburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Saxony and Thuringia. Neighboring regions in Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are also in risk areas. However, despite the worrying circumstances, infections are extremely rare, with only around six cases recorded each year.
Zoological research on transmission
A comprehensive study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases looks at the transmission of BoDV-1 from tree shrews to humans. This study shows that the risk of infection is very low compared to other zoonotic diseases. The researchers examined all relevant information, including brain samples from 29 suspected cases of human BoDV-1 encephalitis. In addition, over 20 institutions were involved in the study, providing samples from pets and zoo animals to further research the risk of transmission.
Symptoms of Borna virus infection can include headache, fever, confusion and neurological abnormalities, which in the worst cases can lead to coma and death. There is no specific therapy available against the virus.
Health protection remains important
Given the current cases, it is important to take precautionary measures and investigate unclear encephalitis cases in affected areas for the virus. Continued awareness of Borna virus and the behaviors to avoid infection is key. To minimize the risk, measures such as avoiding contact with tree shrews and their droppings should be strictly adhered to.
Overall, it remains to be hoped that the dangers posed by the Borna virus can be contained through comprehensive research and early detection. Further information on this topic can be found at LR Online, Nature and Health research BMBF be found.