Bornavirus-Alarma: Brandenburg's clinics are preparing!

Bornavirus-Alarma: Brandenburg's clinics are preparing!

Lately there has been a growing concern in the health authorities and clinics about the rare but potentially fatal bornavirus. This is a disease that has so far been largely unknown in Germany. However, a death in the spring of 2025 in Upper Bavaria, in which a man died of the consequences of a Bornavirus infection, raised public awareness of the virus. [maz-online.de] (https://www.maz-online.de/lokales/brandenburg-havel/bornavirus-so-bereit-s-brandenburgs-kliniken-z--voriko-vor-ruobytq5vfkrzjpkrzjpkrzjpkrzjpkrzjpkrzjpkrzjpkrzjprzjpkrzjpkrzjpkrzjpklgn7jgi) reports that the virus is primarily transmitted in certain Regions of southern and eastern Germany.

The Bornavirus can trigger severe neurological diseases in humans that are often fatal. In an infection, symptoms such as fever, fatigue and headache can occur, which can lead to serious complications such as memory disorders, paralysis and even coma in advanced phases. The diagnosis is difficult because the first symptoms are unspecific and there are no simple laboratory tests for early detection. Another problem is the fact that there are no treatment options or vaccinations against the Bornavirus. [rnd.de] (https://www.rnd.de/gesundheit/bornavirus-erklaert- Ursung-Symptomes- und-Schutz-Q7iws3BX5EQ7A7DSFXNZRCGY4.html) also also provides information that the detection is often only made when the symptoms are made and the diagnosis is made by MRI or liquor puncture must.

risk areas and preparations

Bayern is considered the main risk area for the Bornavirus. Almost all previous cases of illness have occurred there. In Brandenburg, on the other hand, the situation is currently less dramatic, but some regions such as the West of Mark and Potsdam-Mittelmark are viewed as potential endemic areas. Clinics in Brandenburg an der Havel and Bad Belzig have already taken measures to prepare for possible cases. maz-online.de be taught.

The local health authorities advise specific protective measures in endemic areas to minimize the risk of infection. This includes avoiding contact with Feldspitz mice, carrying out garden and forest work with the appropriate protective clothing and regularly disinfecting contaminated areas. Landratsamt-roth.de emphasizes that it is particularly important in these areas to be informed about the transmission paths and how to protect yourself effectively.

outlook and developments

There are currently no acute cases known in the area, but developments are closely observed. The transfer of illness is not directly from person to person, which shows that the combating of the virus is primarily about reducing contacts with the main hosts, the Feldspitz mice. The Feldspitzmaus itself is a permanent discipline of the Bornavirus and is twilight and nocturnal. The knowledge of their way of life and the types of transmission are crucial in order to be able to act successfully in the region.

It remains important for the population to be vigilant and to find out comprehensive information about the risks and prevention options. In terms of one's own health and the protection of the community, it is worth taking the advice of the experts seriously and taking appropriate precautions.