Frankfurt Airport employee dies from malaria infection

A Fraport employee has died following a malaria infection, Fraport confirmed, expressing deep sympathy for the deceased's family. This marks a tragic development as the total number of infected employees at Frankfurt Airport has now risen to six.

Officials suspect the infections stem from imported mosquitoes. Fraport had previously reported four cases in mid-July. The company stated that all affected employees are currently receiving medical treatment. Mosquito traps have been deployed at the airport, and any caught insects are being sent for laboratory analysis to identify the source.

Malaria is a life-threatening disease transmitted by mosquitoes, particularly those active at dusk and dawn. The German Foreign Office notes that it can lead to coma and death, especially in at-risk groups. Prevention includes mosquito bite protection and taking prophylactic medication.

The rare condition known as "airport malaria" occurs when an infected mosquito is brought into a country via aircraft or luggage. The infection can then be transmitted within the aircraft, at the airport, or in its immediate vicinity, according to the Robert Koch Institute.