By Svetlana Petrov
Dangerous Bornavirus Mystery in Upper Bavaria: Addressing Essential Inquiries and Responses - Bornavirus Threat in Upper Bavaria: Crucial Q&A on the Potentially Harmful Virus
The recent scenes in Upper Bavaria, Germany, are painting a grave picture as the Borna Disease Virus 1 (BoDV-1) has reared its ugly head once again. Two men from Pfaffenhofen, the city at the heart of the pandemic, have tested positive for BoDV-1, while another is fighting the persistent infection in the ICU [1][5].
Among these unfortunate individuals, one has already succumbed to the complications [1]. The health departments in Bavaria are working tirelessly to trace the sources of the infection and collaborate closely with the Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority (LGL) to shed light on this mysterious outbreak.
The last time the Borna virus claimed the lives of residents in Bavaria was back in June 2022 when traces of the virus were detected in an individual from Landkreis Mühldorf am Inn. Looking further back, a 58-year-old woman from Landkreis Anhalt-Bitterfeld in Saxony-Anhalt was also found infected at the end of 2021 [1]. Although isolated cases have occurred in humans over the years, this virus is primarily known to affect farm animals such as horses and sheep in Central Europe [1].
What is the Borna Virus?
The BoDV-1, colloquially known as the scourge of Borna's disease, has been lurking in the shadows for decades. Initially, it was only associated with illnesses among farm animals. However, the virus transited into humans in 2018, causing severe brain inflammation [1].
BoDV-1 became a notifiable disease in 2020. Since then, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has reported up to six acute cases of BoDV-1 encephalitis each year. This condition mainly affects residents of Bavaria [1].
It's essential to recognize that BoDV-1 is entirely distinct from the Bunthornchen-Borna virus (Variagated squirrel bornavirus 1, VSBV-1), another sort of pathogen that has been transmitted to humans for years [1]. The VSBV-1 originates from squirrels and was initially detected in three hobby breeders from Saxony-Anhalt who suffered from brain inflammation symptoms and ultimately passed away between 2011 and 2013 [1].
Where does BoDV-1 proliferate?
According to the Robert Koch Institute, the white-throated field mouse, scientifically known as Crocidura leucodon, serves as a natural reservoir for BoDV-1. Evidently, the viruses are expelled via shrews' bodily fluids (saliva, urine, feces) [1].
In Germany, Bavaria, Thuringia, and Saxony-Anhalt, along with their adjacent regions, have reported the highest concentration of BoDV-1 [1]. The virus has also been identified in animals residing in Switzerland, Austria, and Liechtenstein [1].
Humans may contract the BoDV-1 virus through ingesting contaminated food or water, inhaling the virus from contaminated dust, or coming into contact with infected animals, like house cats that often prey on shrews [1].
Despite the possibility of human-to-human transmission, the Robert Koch Institute considers it extremely improbable. Other animals, aside from shrews, are also considered non-infectious to both animals and humans [1].
What is the infection risk in Germany?
Experts estimate that around two to six acute cases of Bornavirus infection occur in humans in Germany each year [1]. Evidently, all age groups and genders are at risk. Given that contact with shrews poses the largest infection risk, it is natural to assume that such encounters are infrequent and relatively challenging to prevent [1].
Additional infection risks exist during outdoor activities that could potentially lead to contact with shrews or their excrement, such as gardening, agricultural and forestry work, construction work, and cleaning buildings inhabited by shrews [1].
What are the typical symptoms of an infection?
The initial symptoms of a Bornavirus infection are similar to those of a cold, including headaches and fever [1]. Over time, however, affected patients experience various neurological symptoms, including behavioral abnormalities, speech and gait disorders, leading to comas within a few days or weeks [1].
Is the Bornavirus dangerous to humans?
The Borna Disease Virus 1 can indeed cause severe brain inflammation in humans. With only one exception, all known cases of infection have resulted in fatal outcomes [1]. To date, there is no specific cure for a Bornavirus infection, meaning treatment focuses on providing supportive care and intensive medical attention to help manage symptoms [1].
While scientists continue their laborious quest to better understand this enigmatic virus, the public health authorities are urging citizens to refrain from direct contact with shrews or their droppings and are organizing educational events to address public concerns [1]. Stay informed, and remember—knowledge is the best weapon in this battle.
- Virus
- Bavaria
- Human Health
In the ongoing Borna Virus outbreak in Bavaria, the infected individuals are not only facing medical-conditions related to the virus but also grappling with the implications on their health-and-wellness. Despite being primarily known to affect farm animals, the Borna Virus, also known as the scourge of Borna's disease, has transitioned into humans, causing severe brain inflammation, making it a significant threat to human health.
