Frankfurt Airport malaria outbreak claims worker’s life as five others treated

A Frankfurt Airport worker has died after a rare outbreak of malaria infected six employees. The disease, spread by mosquitoes, is believed to have arrived at Germany's busiest airport via a plane. Five others are undergoing medical treatment, according to Fraport, the airport operator. Traps have been installed at the airport to monitor the mosquito population, with samples to be analyzed in a lab to determine their species and origin.

"One employee has sadly died as a result of the infection," a Fraport spokesperson confirmed to the BBC. The Fraport spokesperson urged all employees to consult a doctor if they experience any symptoms, providing comprehensive information on the matter. In July, it was reported that four workers had fallen ill, with the Robert Koch Institute stating the mosquitoes were brought into the airport via plane.

The institute emphasized that malaria in Germany is rare and typically affects long-haul travelers who contracted the infection in endemic areas. The last instance of airport malaria occurred in 2023 at Frankfurt Airport. Malaria is transmitted by certain types of mosquitoes that bite humans and is primarily found in tropical countries.

The infection, caused by a parasite, is preventable and curable, but symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening.