West-Nil-Virus: Number of reported cases is increasing in Germany – four districts in Berlin already affected
West Nile virus causes meningitis or brain inflammation
The West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes and can cause the diseases West Nile fever or West Nile meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and, in the worst case, paralysis and death. Birds are considered to be the main hosts of the virus. Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds and then transmit the virus to other birds or humans when they bite again. The virus is not transmitted from person to person, human to animal, or vice versa.
Most infections show only mild flu-like symptoms
About 80 percent of those infected do not show any symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe courses with meningitis or brain inflammation are rare. In the case of severe courses, the virus can cause paralysis and even death.
Four districts in Berlin have already been affected
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), 32 cases of West Nile virus infection have been reported to the authority this year in Germany up to and including August 20, 2023. In 2022 there were only ten cases for the whole year. Four districts in Berlin have already been affected this year. According to the RKI, most infections occur between the end of July and the beginning of October.
Experts assume high numbers of unreported cases
Experts assume that there are a high number of unreported cases, since only severe cases with meningitis or brain inflammation are usually detected. The RKI recommends that doctors consider a West Nile virus infection, especially in the case of unexplained meningitis or encephalitis during the summer months and in regions where the virus is known to occur.
Adopt preventive measures – especially when traveling
There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus infection. Therapy is symptomatic and supportive and is aimed at relieving the symptoms. There is also no vaccination. The RKI advises travelers to virus-prone areas to take preventive measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites, such as using mosquito repellent, wearing light-colored, long clothing, and sleeping under mosquito nets.
