Corresponding to Borna virus: death and cases in Pfaffenhofen!

Corresponding to Borna virus: death and cases in Pfaffenhofen!

Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Deutschland - In the past few days, concern for the Borna virus in Upper Bavaria has grown. According to the reports of the PNP, two men have been infected in the region, one of them passed away from the consequences of the disease. The district office Pfaffenhofen at the ILM then organized an information event for concerned citizens. The health authorities warn of a panic manner and emphasize that hygiene measures are of great importance.

The Borna Disease Virus 1 (Bodv-1) is the pathogen that is in this context. It is excreted via the urine, feces and saliva of the Feldspitz mouse, which is the only known reservoir for the virus. District Administrator Albert Gürtner said that the exact transmission paths to humans are so far unclear. There are currently 57 cases of illness in humans, with most of them registered in Bavaria. A dangerous accumulation of two cases within a short time represents a new aspect.

symptoms and transmission paths

An infection with BodV-1 can cause severe brain inflammation that usually get fatal. The first symptoms include headache, fever and general feeling of illness, which can ultimately pass into neurological symptoms and severe encephalitis. So far it is known that the disease ends fatally in most known cases.

However, the exact transmission paths to humans remain unclear. Possible sources of infection can be contaminated foods, water and direct contact with Feldspitz mice. Experts emphasize that human-to-human transmission is extremely unlikely. Information from the Robert Koch Institute also contradict the assumption that consumption of strawberries or contact with cats is a risk.

prevention and treatment

Currently neither vaccinations nor rapid tests against the Borna virus are available, which makes the situation complicated for the people concerned and the public. In order to minimize the risk of infection, experts strongly advise against having contact with living or dead Feldspitz mice. Dead animals should only be disposed of with gloves and masks.

Although antiviral and immunosuppressive therapies are possible, the immune response can cause severe symptoms even in mild cases. A specific therapy does not exist against the borna disease. Only supportive measures and experimental virostatics could be helpful in the future, but have not yet been approved.

The topic of Borna virus has been reportable since March 1, 2020, and the health authorities are continuously working on learning more about the virus and its transmission options. According to the LGL Bayern, research projects are underway to better understand the causes and effects and to comprehensively clarify the public.

For more information, citizens can be the website of the LGL Bayern Consult