Overview

• Local authorities confirmed that a man in Pfaffenhofen, Oberbayern, died of severe encephalitis caused by BoDV-1 in early June after exposure to Feldspitzmäuse.
• A second person from the same locality remains hospitalized with neurological symptoms consistent with Bornavirus infection.
• The Robert Koch-Institut estimates Germany records about five to ten acute BoDV-1 encephalitis cases annually, with most occurring in Bavaria and other endemic regions.
• Feldspitzmäuse transmit BoDV-1 via saliva, urine and feces, and cats may indirectly expose owners when they hunt infected shrews.
• With no specific therapy available, health officials advise avoiding contact with shrews or their excreta and wearing gloves when handling these animals.