Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE): A Comprehensive Guide
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infectious disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to inflammation of the brain and, in severe cases, neurological complications. It is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks or, in rare cases, by consuming unpasteurized dairy products from infected animals. TBE is endemic in many parts of Europe and Asia, and travellers visiting high-risk areas should take precautions, including vaccination.
What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis?
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral disease caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), a member of the Flavivirus family. The virus primarily affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to neurological complications that can result in long-term disability or even death.
TBE is most transmitted to humans through bites from infected Ixodes ticks (commonly known as deer ticks or castor bean ticks). The infection is prevalent in forested regions of Europe and Asia, particularly during warm months when ticks are active.
Signs and Symptoms of TPE
The symptoms of TBE occur in two stages and vary in severity.
Stage 1: Early Phase (Flu-like Symptoms) – Lasts 2-7 Days
After an incubation period of 7-14 days, the first stage presents mild, flu-like symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Joint pain
Stage 2: Neurological Phase (Severe Brain and Spinal Cord Inflammation)
In more severe cases, TBE leads to encephalitis (brain inflammation), meningitis (inflammation of the protective membranes of the brain and spinal cord), or meningoencephalitis (a combination of both).
Symptoms include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion and disorientation
- Seizures
- Paralysis (in severe cases)
- Loss of coordination
- Speech and memory issues
- Tremors
Causes of Tick-Borne Encephalitis
TBE is caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), which belongs to the same family of viruses as dengue, Zika, and yellow fever. There are three subtypes of the virus:
- European subtype (transmitted by Ixodes ricinus ticks)
- Siberian subtype (transmitted by Ixodes persulcatus ticks)
- Far Eastern subtype (transmitted by Ixodes persulcatus ticks, often causing more severe disease)
Modes of Transmission
- Tick Bites – The primary mode of transmission occurs when an infected tick bites a human and transfers the virus through its saliva.
- Consumption of Unpasteurized Dairy Products – Rare cases have been reported where individuals contract TBE by consuming raw milk or dairy products from infected goats, sheep, or cows.
- No Human-to-Human Transmission – Unlike some other viral diseases, TBE is not spread directly from person to person.
Complications of Tick-Borne Encephalitis
In severe cases, long-term neurological damage can occur, including:
- Chronic fatigue
- Memory problems
- Speech and coordination difficulties
- Paralysis (rare but possible)
- Seizure disorders
- Depression and emotional instability
Approximately 1-2% of cases result in death, particularly in infections caused by the Far Eastern subtype of the virus.
Prevention of Tick-Borne Encphalitis
Preventing hepatitis B is achievable through a combination of vaccination, safe practices, and awareness.
1. Vaccination
The TBE vaccine is the most effective way to prevent tick-borne encephalitis. It is recommended for travellers and residents in endemic areas.
Primary Series (for Adults & Children)
- 1st dose
- 2nd dose (1-3 months after the first dose)
- 3rd dose (5-12 months after the second dose)
Booster Doses: Every 3-5 years for continued protection.
2. Tick Bite Prevention
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants when in wooded areas.
- Apply tick repellents (containing DEET or permethrin) on exposed skin.
- Perform regular tick checks on your body and clothing after outdoor activities.
- Avoid dense vegetation and leaf litter, where ticks thrive.
3. Safe Food Consumption
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products in endemic regions.
Regions Where TBE is Endemic
TBE is endemic in Europe and Asia, with high-risk areas including:
- Europe: Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Russia
- Asia: Russia (Siberian region), Mongolia, China, Japan, South Korea, Kazakhstan
Peak transmission occurs between March and November, when ticks are most active.
Why Vaccinate at Trio Pharmacy's Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton?
If you’re planning to travel to an endemic region or want to protect yourself against tick-borne encephalitis, Trio Pharmacy’s Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton is your trusted destination.
- Expert Guidance: Our trained healthcare professionals provide personalised advice tailored to your needs.
- Convenient Appointments: Flexible booking options to suit your schedule.
- Comprehensive Care: We ensure you receive the most up-to-date vaccinations and travel health information.