Borna virus alarm in Bavaria: Be careful with hedgehogs and wild animals!

Borna virus alarm in Bavaria: Be careful with hedgehogs and wild animals!

Alarm in Upper Bavaria! The Borna virus has struck hedgehogs in the Ebersberg district. Several animals have tested positive and authorities are strongly warning of possible infection. Particularly worrying: In extremely rare cases, people can also become infected with this dangerous virus!

The Ebersberg district office has informed the population about the dangers. This summer, infected hedgehogs that died from the disease were reported to the veterinary office. There were also reports of horses with suspected Bornavirus infections. “Three hedgehogs have already died,” according to the authority’s statement. Another case was discovered in a care station in Eggenfelden, where hedgehogs were also sick with the virus.

People in danger?

Bornavirus (BoDV-1) can cause fatal brain inflammation in humans. So far, the field shrew is known to be the main vector, spreading the virus through urine, feces and saliva. People should therefore be particularly careful when coming into contact with mouse droppings or contaminated food.

The question remains: Can hedgehogs also transmit the virus? Experts are currently examining whether hedgehogs act as vectors or merely act as dead-end hosts. So far there is no concrete evidence of virus excretion in the hedgehogs examined.

Protective measures strongly recommended!

Authorities strongly advise against touching dead animals with your bare hands. Rubber gloves and protective masks are a must to protect yourself from possible infection. “If the environment is dusty, you should take a shower immediately,” warn the experts.

Since 1996, bornavirus infections in humans have been repeatedly recorded in Bavaria. Most cases come from Bavaria, where the virus is particularly widespread. The population is called upon to be vigilant and inform themselves about the risks!