It is rare, but extremely dangerous: the Borna virus, which is usually transmitted by shrews, has now been detected in a person in Bavaria. The pathogen causes inflammation of the brain, which is fatal in almost all cases.
The district office in Weißenburg announced on Tuesday that one person in the Weißenburg-Gunzenhausen district had been affected. The authority has not provided any further information about the infected person. The health department and veterinary office said they were working intensively to clarify the route of infection.
To protect yourself from infections, the LGL recommends avoiding contact with shrews and their droppings. Live or dead animals should not be touched with bare hands.
Causes fatal inflammation in the brain
The pathogen has long been known in animals. However, it was only in 2018 that it was proven that it can also be transmitted to humans and usually causes fatal encephalitis. The Robert Koch Institute assumes that two to six diseases occur in Germany every year, with Bavaria mainly affected.
Transmitted via saliva, feces and food
In addition to humans, the Borna virus can also be transmitted to horses and other mammals. It is spread through saliva, urine or feces of infected shrews.
The virus can be transmitted through direct contact with infected saliva or feces, through consumption of contaminated food or through contact with infected animals. Person-to-person transmission is very rare.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
