Experts warn: Alpacas can transmit diseases - here's how to protect yourself!

Experts warn: Alpacas can transmit diseases - here's how to protect yourself!

Jena.Alpacas and llamas, the fluffy favorites of hiking enthusiasts, are increasingly proving to be possible disease carriers. Experts from Jena urgently warn about the risk of infection posed by these animals and advise caution! Who would have thought that the alpaca hiking trend could not only endanger your heart, but also your health?

Alpaca hikes are becoming increasingly popular in Thuringia. But Christian Menge, an expert from the Friedrich Loeffler Institute in Jena, is very worried: “With the increasing number of contacts with alpacas, many people who normally have little to do with farm animals could find themselves in danger.” The fluffy animals can carry a variety of germs - from diarrheal pathogens to mites to tuberculosis! And that's not all: children and older people are particularly susceptible to infections as they are often the target group for animal-assisted therapies.

Alarming numbers: tens of thousands of animals in Germany

Expert estimates show that there are between 35,000 and 40,000 llamas and alpacas living in Germany! Henrik Wagner from the Justus Liebig University of Giessen, who is working on a research project to inventory pathogens in these New World camelids, emphasizes the urgency of this situation. To date, there is no comprehensive data on these animals, so clarity needs to be created as quickly as possible.

“There’s no need to panic,” says Wagner, “but regular monitoring of the health of these animals by veterinarians is crucial.” The experts emphasize that simple hygiene rules can save lives: keep your distance, don't kiss the animals and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards! The animal cuddly friends could bring more than just joy - protect yourself!