Man infected with Borna virus in Bavaria
A very rare infection with the Borna virus has been detected in Bavaria. A person in the district of Weißenburg-Gunzenhausen was affected, the district office in Weißenburg announced on Tuesday. The authorities did not provide any further details about the infected person. The pathogen triggers an inflammation of the brain, which is fatal in almost all cases. Survivors usually suffer severe consequential damage.
The health authority and veterinary office are working intensively to clarify the route of infection, according to the current case. Borna disease virus 1 (BoDV-1) is found in shrews. The animals excrete the virus in urine, feces and saliva. This can infect other mammals.
To protect yourself from infection, the LGL advises you to avoid contact with shrews and their excrement. Live or dead animals should not be touched with bare hands.
The pathogen has been known in animals for a long time. It has only been proven since 2018 that BoDV-1 can also be transmitted to humans and usually causes fatal encephalitis. The Robert Koch Institute estimates two to six cases per year in Germany, with Bavaria being particularly affected.
The detection of this rare disease in Bavaria underscores the importance of continued research in the field of health and science. To minimize the risk of infection, it's crucial to avoid contact with shrews and their waste, as mentioned by the LGL.
Source: www.dpa.com
