Gesundheit: West-Nil-Virus im Land: Das muss man jetzt wissen

Baden-Württemberg has reported two instances of locally acquired infections with the West Nile Virus in people, according to the state's Social Ministry. Both individuals had not traveled abroad before becoming infected, and the infections were traced back to bites from infected mosquitoes in Stuttgart and Karlsruhe. The viruses, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes between wild birds, can also infect humans and other mammals.

Around 20% of those infected develop West Nile fever, a flu-like illness, while only about one in 100 cases results in severe illness. The ministry has stated that human-to-human transmission is not common. The virus was first detected in birds and horses in Baden-Württemberg in 2024. Health Minister Oliver Hildenbrand noted that the virus's presence in humans is not surprising.

The ministry has not disclosed details about the two infected individuals, including their age, gender, or health status. The virus has been known to occur locally in Germany since 2019, with most cases initially found in eastern German states. This year, four cases were documented, with two in Berlin and one each in Saxony and Rhineland-Palatinate.

The best way to protect against West Nile Virus is to prevent mosquito bites during the mosquito season, using insect repellent, wearing long, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing, and using mosquito nets on windows and doors. Additionally, eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites in one's garden or balcony can help. Health professionals should consider West Nile infection in patients presenting with unclear fever or neurological symptoms during the mosquito season and perform appropriate laboratory tests if there is suspicion.

The virus originated in Africa and was first identified in the West Nile District of Uganda in 1937. It first appeared in Europe in the early 1960s in France.