Borna Virus Claims Third Life in Bavaria, Authorities Warn of Spread
Borna virus, a rare but deadly disease, has claimed another life in Bavaria. A 57-year-old from the Tirschenreuth district has passed away, marking the third fatality in just a few months. This raises concerns about the spread of the virus, primarily transmitted by field voles and other small mammals.
The Borna virus, or BoDV-1, is typically carried by field voles and shrews. These animals excrete the pathogen through various bodily fluids, including saliva, urine, and feces. The virus can also be transmitted through constant contact with infected animals. Health authorities suspect that the recent victim came into contacts with field shrews, although the exact transmission route is still under investigation.
To prevent infection, experts advise keeping field voles away luggage. If a dead field vole is found, it's crucial to wear protective gear, including gloves, glasses, and a mask. The carcass should then be sprayed with cleaning agents before disposal. In case of direct contact with a live vole, it should be picked up using an inverted bag and sealed before disposing of it in household waste.
This is the third Borna virus-related death in Bavaria in recent months, with two previous cases occurring in the Upper Bavarian district of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm. The Tirschenreuth district in northern Upper Palatinate is now affected. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of infection and remind the public to take precautions when handling dead or live field voles.
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