Two airport workers die of malaria in Germany

Two employees at Frankfurt Airport have died from malaria, raising concerns about the rare phenomenon of 'airport malaria.' Health authorities confirmed the deaths, with the first occurring in early July and the second in August. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI), Germany's disease control agency, had previously identified four infected airport workers between August 4-6.

In total, six Frankfurt Airport employees have been infected, with two succumbing to the disease. Officials suspect that mosquitoes carrying the malaria parasite were transported via aircraft cargo or luggage. These mosquitoes then likely bit individuals within the airport or surrounding areas, leading to the infections. This mode of transmission, known as 'airport malaria,' is considered extremely rare in Germany.

Fraport, the airport operator, has installed mosquito traps throughout the facility, and any captured mosquitoes are being tested for infection. The company has also issued guidance to airport staff, urging them to seek medical attention if they experience typical malaria symptoms and to inform their doctors about their airport employment. This measure aims to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.

While malaria infections in Germany are typically contracted by travelers bitten by mosquitoes in endemic regions, the Frankfurt cases highlight a potential new pathway for transmission. European studies have documented a limited number of airport-related malaria cases since 1969, with Germany accounting for nine of the 145 recorded instances. The current investigation seeks to understand the full extent of the outbreak and prevent further spread.

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The infections are presumed to be caused by mosquitoes carrying the malaria parasite that entered the country via aircraft cargo.