Tick-borne encephalitis: what is it, how dangerous is it, how do you get it, and should you vaccinate?

What is tick-borne encephalitis?

• Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a brain inflammation caused by the tickborne encephalitis virus.
• The virus is transmitted by ticks.
• The disease is known by various names and has 3 sub-types
  • European or Western tick-borne encephalitis virus
  • Siberian tick-borne encephalitis virus
  • Far-Eastern tick-borne encephalitis virus, formely known as FSME, Russian spring summer encephalitis

How do you get tick-borne encephalitis?

• An infected tick transmits the virus to you through a bite, which occurs within the first few minutes after the bite.
• Removing the tick has no effect on the infection.

Where does tick-borne encephalitis occur?

• The tick-borne encephalitis virus is found in large parts of Europe and Russia.
• Ticks are mainly found in wooded areas and tall grass. The risk of a bite and subsequent infection is greatest from April to November.
• Due to climate change the virus is slowly moving westward and northward

What are the symptoms of tick-borne encephalitis?

• A large proportion of infected people do not become seriously ill. A minority develops encephalitis or meningitis, both serious, life-threatening illnesses. People over 50 are more likely to develop the severe variant.
• One to three weeks after infection by a tick, you develop flu-like symptoms. In people with the more severe variant, the symptoms worsen with a high fever, stiff neck, and vomiting.
• In cases of infection via raw milk, the first symptoms are noticeable after just a few days.

Can tick-borne encephalitis be treated?

• Unfortunately, tick-borne encephalitis itself is not treatable.
• Only the symptoms of encephalitis, such as a high fever, can be treated.

What to do to prevent tick-borne encephalitis abroad?

• Avoid tick bites. Not only against tick-borne encephalitis but also against Lyme disease, for example.
• Wear long clothing, wear your socks over your pants, and walk in the middle of paths. To enhance this effect, you can use tick-resistant socks or DEET.
• After a nature walk or other outdoor activity, carefully check your body and clothing for ticks. A tick on your backpack or shoe can still bite you the next day!
• Do not eat (products made from) raw milk in areas where the disease is prevalent.
• Depending on the risk level of your destination and your activity (e.g., frequent nature walks), a vaccination may be recommended.

Is there a vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis?

• An effective vaccine against tick-borne encephalitis is available for both children and adults.
• You receive three injections over a period of usually six months, which protect you for three years.
• Didn't start the first injection on time? A quicker injection with a less effective effect is also available. You can also get your third injection after returning home.