Rare airport malaria outbreak kills 2 workers at Frankfurt Airport

Two airport employees at Frankfurt Airport have died following a rare malaria outbreak that infected six workers, according to German public health officials. The source of the outbreak is believed to be mosquitoes that may have arrived on a plane, as suggested by airport operator Fraport. The first case was reported in July, with the Frankfurt Public Health Department now investigating the incident.

Traps have been installed at the airport to monitor the mosquito population, and captured specimens will be analyzed to determine their species and origin. Fraport has informed all employees about the situation and advised them to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms. The outbreak affects six male workers from various roles and areas within the airport.

Public health officials emphasized that the risk to the general Frankfurt population remains very low, as the disease is not contagious between people and is transmitted solely by mosquitoes. The Robert Koch Institute, a German federal agency, previously reported that the four infected workers contracted the disease between July 4 and 6, suggesting the mosquitoes were brought onto the premises via an aircraft. Malaria is most common in tropical regions and is preventable and curable with proper treatment.