Health experts have warned of a potential outbreak of a fatal "rare disease" which causes inflammation on the brain.
A case of the disease, known as Borna, has been detected in Germany, according to German health authorities.
Also called sad horse disease, the infectious neurological syndrome is a member of the Borna Disease Virus (BDV) family and affects warm-blooded animals, the Express reports.
The disease is extremely rare, with cases only found in humans a handful of times after it emerged in Germany in the late 1800s.
Local authorities in the country announced on Tuesday a person from the district of Muhldorf am Inn was infected.
In the Bavarian district, two other cases of the virus affecting humans have been reported over the past three years.
BDV can cause an inflammation of the brain after infection, leading to death in almost all cases, while those who did survive the virus were left to suffer long-term damage.
On average, Germany reports about two infections every year, although experts assume that the number of unreported cases in the country could go as high as up to six cases per year.
Borna disease viruses, which come in type one and type two variants, can affect a wide host of mammals aside from humans. BDV-1 and BDV-2 have been previously detected in horses, cattle, sheep, dogs and foxes.
Patients infected with Borna disease could end up with meningitis, which is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord.
According to the NHS, meningitis “can affect anyone, but is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults".
Meningitis can be very serious if not treated quickly. It can cause life-threatening blood poisoning (septicaemia) and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves.
Fortunately, a number of vaccinations are available which can offer some protection against the brain disease. Scientists believe the transmission of Borna viruses occurs through the intranasal exposure of contaminated saliva or nasal secretions.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
