Borna virus infections in humans are extremely rare, but when they occur, they’re often fatal.
With no known treatment and vague early symptoms, the virus poses a silent danger. Here’s what you should know about the virus that has now claimed another life.
The Borna virus comes from a tiny rodent
The field shrew (Crocidura leucodon) is only six to eight centimeters long, but it can carry the deadly Borna virus.
The virus is excreted through the animal’s saliva, urine, and feces, making it a serious risk for other mammals, including humans.
Also read: Actor Dies for 7 Minutes and Returns With Chilling Details From the Afterlife
Human-to-human transmission not confirmed
So far, there have been no verified cases of the virus being transmitted directly between people.
This makes the exact route of human infection unclear but slightly less concerning in terms of broader spread.
Cats can be indirect carriers
While cats don’t get sick from the virus, they may bring infected shrews into homes. This hunting behavior can unknowingly expose humans to the virus.
Pet owners in endemic areas are urged to be extra cautious, although owning cats isn’t officially considered a risk factor.
Also read: Dead for 8 Minutes – Now She Says Death Isn’t Real
Don’t touch shrews - dead or alive
Health authorities recommend never handling shrews without gloves, particularly in affected regions. Even contact with a dead animal could pose a risk of infection.
Incubation period remains unclear
Experts don't yet know how long it takes from infection to the onset of symptoms.
Estimates suggest anywhere from several weeks to a few months, which makes it difficult to detect and prevent transmission.
Difficult to diagnose early
BoDV-1 is almost never diagnosed in its early stages.
Also read: This Tiny Food May Protect You From Heart Disease and Diabetes
Only once serious neurological symptoms appear can doctors run a PCR test on brain tissue or cerebrospinal fluid to confirm the presence of the virus.
Early symptoms mimic common illnesses
Patients typically report headaches, fever, and a general feeling of sickness at first - symptoms easily mistaken for the flu or a cold.
This delay in proper diagnosis can be fatal.
Rapid progression to severe brain symptoms
Once the virus reaches the brain, it can cause encephalitis.
Also read: This Is Why You Should Never Crush a Tick – It Can Cost You Dearly!
This leads to severe neurological issues such as speech problems, behavioral changes, and difficulty walking.
In most cases, it quickly progresses to coma and death.
No known cure or treatment
There is currently no specific treatment for BoDV-1.
Therapies focus on symptom relief, but the fatality rate remains close to 100 percent, making prevention and awareness crucial.
Also read: Forget Fancy Diets – This Simple Fruit Is Your Gut’s Best Friend
Research is still in early stages
Scientists are still learning about BoDV-1. Major questions remain unanswered - especially how the virus enters the human body and affects the brain.
Ongoing studies aim to uncover the mechanisms behind this deadly disease and how it might be prevented.
This article is based on information from Frankfurter Rundschau.