Experts Warn of Infection Risks from Popular Alpaca Encounters

Increased human interaction with alpacas and llamas raises concerns over potential zoonotic disease transmission.

Alpaca and llama activities, such as guided walks and therapy sessions, have become increasingly popular in Germany.
Experts highlight the risk of disease transmission from these animals, including pathogens like diarrhea-causing bacteria, mites, and tuberculosis.
With an estimated 35,000 to 40,000 alpacas and llamas in Germany, their popularity has surged among people with little prior contact with livestock.
The Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut advises maintaining hygiene, avoiding close contact, and washing hands after interaction to mitigate infection risks.
Although the risk is present, experts stress that panic is unnecessary, advocating for regular veterinary health checks and proper animal management.