Meningitis case linked to Borna disease leads to first fatality in Germany
Liveliest Lethal Lane: A man in Bavaria recently kicked the bucket due to a Bornavirus infection. Now, another fellow is battling the virus in intensive care. According to Bavarian Radio, both men hail from Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Upper Bavaria. The local health department is working diligently to uncover the origin of their probable exposure.
The virus, colloquially known as BoDV-1, thrives in field mice, who manifest no signs of illness but excrete the pathogen via feces, urine, saliva, and skin. Field shrews, other mammals like sheep and horses, can become gravely ill if they come into contact with the virus. Humans, however, suffer from severe brain inflammation, a condition whose long-term implications were only recognized in 2018.
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No Cure for Bornavirus: Despite its potential to fatal consequences, Bornavirus has only affected five to ten people in Germany each year, a rarity compared to lightning strikes (200 people annually in Germany). It's prominent in southern and central regions of the country.
Identifying Bornavirus: An infection begins with headaches and fever, making diagnosis tricky. Later stages may exhibit speech disorders, unsteady gait, peculiar behavior, meningitis, coma, and potentially death.
No cure for Bornavirus has been discovered, making supportive care the primary treatment. ICU admission might be necessary at certain stages.
Transmission of Bornavirus: The virus can travel through various means, including contact with infected shrews' bodily fluids and skin, inhaling contaminated dust, and ingesting tainted soil, water, or food. A direct shrew bite is uncommon, but possible.
Theoretically, pets could pass on the virus if they hunt and consume infected shrews, though this remains unproven.
Scientists are racing to develop a cure for Bornavirus, with ongoing research as the best hope for sufferers. So, stay informed with the latest health updates to protect yourself.
In light of the ongoing research, it's crucial to stay informed about neurological disorders like Bornavirus, which primarily affects the brain in humans, causing severe inflammation and symptoms such as headaches, fever, speech disorders, and even coma or death. Additionally, the health-and-wellness sector is actively working to identify the medical-conditions associated with this virus and to develop a cure, as currently, supportive care is the primary treatment, sometimes requiring ICU admission.
