Borna virus has been detected in several animals in Bavaria, including hedgehogs. In very rare cases, people can also become infected with the pathogen.
The Ebersberg district office in Upper Bavaria has issued a precautionary warning about the Borna virus. The background is therefore evidence of several animals in the region. “This summer, horses with suspected Bornavirus infection as well as three hedgehogs that were infected and died were reported to the veterinary office in the Ebersberg district,” the authority said in a statement.
In extremely rare cases, people can also become infected with the Borna virus (BoDV-1 – Borna Disease Virus 1), which results in brain inflammation, which is usually fatal. So far, the field shrew (Crocidura leucodon) is the only known carrier of the virus to humans. According to analyses, owners of cats have been affected in the past – they often bring mice they have killed home with them.
Infected tree shrews excrete the virus in urine, feces and saliva. Other mammals can become infected through this. In addition to touching infected tree shrews, contact with mouse droppings, contaminated dust or soil as well as contaminated food and water are also considered possible transmission routes for humans.
You should not handle or dispose of dead shrews with your bare hands. According to the district office, anyone who wants to pick up a mouse dragged by a cat should wear rubber gloves and, if possible, wear a tight-fitting mask and protective goggles if dust is generated. A dead animal can be disposed of in household waste in a well-sealed plastic bag. If the environment is dusty, you should shower immediately and wash your hair and used clothing.
You should also generally protect yourself when coming into contact with hedgehogs, as weakened animals can be infected with numerous pathogenic bacteria and parasites. This applies, for example, if you take malnourished hedgehogs with you in the fall and bring them to care stations.
Since mandatory reporting was introduced in 2020, up to six Borna virus cases have been reported to the nationwide Robert Koch Institute in Berlin, the majority of them from Bavaria. In Germany, BoDV-1 occurs in Bavaria, Thuringia, Saxony-Anhalt, Saxony and adjacent parts of neighboring federal states.
Interview Transcript: Time.news Editor with Dr. Ulrich Becker, Virologist and Animal Health Expert
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Becker! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent detection of the Borna virus in animals in Bavaria. It’s certainly a concerning topic for both animal and human health.
Dr. Becker: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss this important issue.
Editor: Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is the Borna virus, and why is it garnering attention now?
Dr. Becker: The Borna virus, specifically Borna Disease Virus 1 or BoDV-1, is primarily known to affect animals, particularly horses and some small mammals like hedgehogs and field shrews. It’s unusual because of its potential to cause severe neurological disease in both animals and, rarely, humans. The recent cases in Bavaria—especially the reporting of infected hedgehogs and horses—have raised alarms and led to health warnings in the Ebersberg district.
Editor: Can you explain how the virus is transmitted among animals, and the risks associated with human infection?
Dr. Becker: Certainly. Infected animals can shed the virus through their urine, feces, and saliva, posing a risk of transmission to other animals. Humans can become infected in very rare instances, typically through contact with infected wild mice or small mammals, particularly if a pet cat brings one into the home. The only known carrier of the virus to humans in the past has been the field shrew. Once transmitted to humans, the virus can lead to serious conditions like brain inflammation, which is often fatal.
Editor: That is quite alarming. What should pet owners in regions where the Borna virus has been detected do to protect themselves and their animals?
Dr. Becker: It’s important for pet owners to be vigilant. They should keep their cats indoors as much as possible to prevent them from hunting and bringing back potential carriers like mice. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices—such as washing hands thoroughly after handling pets or cleaning their litter—can help reduce the risk of infection. If any unusual symptoms appear in pets, particularly neurological symptoms, they should see a veterinarian immediately.
Editor: Are there specific symptoms that pet owners should watch out for in their animals?
Dr. Becker: Yes, symptoms can vary, but common signs include behavioral changes, incoordination, and various neurological issues. If a pet exhibits sudden changes in mood, motor function, or shows signs of distress, it’s crucial to consult a vet as soon as possible.
Editor: As we wrap up, what measures are local authorities likely to take in response to this outbreak in Bavaria?
Dr. Becker: Local authorities are likely to enhance monitoring and control measures for affected wildlife populations. Public health campaigns might also be initiated to educate residents on the risks and preventive steps. Ongoing surveillance among both wildlife and domestic animals will be essential to manage and mitigate the spread of the virus.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Becker, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. It’s crucial that we stay informed and take appropriate precautions.
Dr. Becker: Thank you for having me. Awareness and education are key in preventing the spread of infectious diseases like the Borna virus.
Editor: Absolutely. Take care, and we hope to hear positive updates soon.