Cassandra calls or frightens? German virologist Christian Drosten calls attention to infected mosquitoes.
The corona virus is no longer ubiquitous when the German virus expert Christian Drosten of the renowned Charité Berlin draws attention with a warning. Namely, that he is currently observing the spread of the West Nile virus in Germany. Does he, like the Greek mythological figure Kassandra, foresee an actual disaster and is not listened to, or is it scare tactics?
The “Bild” reports that Drosten said, “The number of mosquitoes carrying the virus appears to be on the rise.” In fatal cases, a mosquito bite from an infected insect can cause encephalitis – permanent disabilities in humans are possible. The number of serious illnesses is one in 1000. Drosten continues: “There have been cases of illness in Berlin in recent years.”
Low risk in Austria
The virus came to Germany via migratory birds from Africa and southern Europe. Humans and other mammals such as horses can also become ill, with an incubation period of two to fourteen days. In Central Europe, West Nile virus is mainly transmitted by the native mosquito. According to the Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES), the risk of becoming infected in Austria is currently very low, with infections occurring in the summer months. In the previous year, eight cases were recorded across Austria.
Most infected people do not notice it, two in ten get a fever and chills. Other flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches, runny nose, and headache are also possible. They usually disappear after seven to ten days. People with an immunodeficiency and people over the age of 50 have a higher risk of developing serious disease.
Treatment is purely symptomatic. A vaccine is being researched.
Source: Krone
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