Borna-Virus bei Igeln in Eggenfelden und Ebersberg festgestellt from

Borna Disease Virus Detected in Hedgehogs in Eggenfelden and Ebersberg

What is Borna Disease Virus?

Borna disease virus (BDV) is a neurotropic virus that primarily affects warm-blooded animals, particularly horses and sheep. In recent years, BDV has also been detected in hedgehogs, raising concerns about its potential transmission to humans and other species.

Symptoms and Transmission

BDV infection can cause a range of neurological symptoms in animals, including behavioral changes, seizures, and paralysis. The virus is typically transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as saliva or urine. Hedgehogs can contract BDV by coming into contact with contaminated food or water, or by interacting with infected animals.

Detection of BDV in Hedgehogs

In recent months, BDV has been detected in hedgehogs in two locations in Germany: Eggenfelden and Ebersberg. The virus was identified during routine veterinary examinations, and positive test results have been confirmed by the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI), the German federal research institute for animal health.

Public Health Concerns

The detection of BDV in hedgehogs raises concerns about the potential for transmission to humans. Although there have been no reported cases of human infection with BDV from hedgehogs, the virus has been known to infect humans in rare cases. Human BDV infection can cause a range of neurological symptoms, including encephalitis and meningitis.

Precautions and Recommendations

To minimize the risk of BDV transmission, it is important to take the following precautions: * Avoid contact with wild hedgehogs, particularly if they appear sick or injured. * If you must handle a hedgehog, wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. * Keep your pets up-to-date on their vaccinations, including rabies and distemper. * Report any sightings of sick or dead hedgehogs to local animal control authorities.

Ongoing Research and Surveillance

Researchers are actively conducting studies to better understand the prevalence and transmission of BDV in hedgehogs. Ongoing surveillance efforts are also being carried out to monitor the spread of the virus and assess the risk to human and animal health.

Conclusion

The detection of BDV in hedgehogs highlights the importance of disease surveillance and public health precautions. By taking steps to minimize contact with infected animals and practicing good hygiene, individuals can help reduce the risk of BDV transmission. Continued research and monitoring are essential for understanding the epidemiology of BDV and developing effective prevention strategies.