TOP 2: Classification recommendation for Bartonella schoenbuchensis and Bartonella birtlesii

B. schoenbuchensis was first isolated from the blood of red deer in 2001, but cattle are also considered reservoir animals for the bacterium. Studies also suggest that the deer fly (Lipoptena cervi) acts as a vector for B. schoenbuchensis It is also known that the bite of the deer fly can cause deer fly dermatitis in humans. Transmission of B. schoenbuchensis during the bite is a possible cause of the disease in humans.

B. birtlesii is a member of the genus Bartonella, which can infect wood mice as well as laboratory mice. The laboratory mice tested developed a bacteremia lasting 5 to 10 weeks. As vectors for B. birtlesii Fleas and ticks are suspected. After transmission to naive animals, these also developed bacteremia. Vertical transmission can also occur, negatively affecting fetal development.

The ZKBS classifies both B. schoenbuchensis and B. birtlesii as donor and recipient organisms for genetic engineering work in Risk Group 2. The classification recommendation is based on the fact that both bacteria have low pathogenic potential and a very limited host range. By classifying them in Risk Group 2, the ZKBS also follows the classification in TRBA 466, which also classifies B. schoenbuchensis with the suffix Z (zoonotic pathogen) and B. birtlesii with the suffix t (animal pathogen) in Risk Group 2.

We have linked the complete statement from the ZKBS here.