Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is spread by infected ticks. They live in the grass and can easily attach themselves to the clothing and skin of people walking by. The infection is spread to people when they are bitten by the tick. The infection, which is present in the saliva of the infected tick, also contains a natural anaesthetic, which can make it difficult for people to register that they have been bitten.

It’s viral and can cause a flu-like illness, fever, headache, nausea, muscle pain, and general discomfort. This form of Encephalitis is often linked with Meningitis, as the virus can attack both the brain and the meninges.

High-Risk Areas

Tick-Borne Encephalitis is mainly found in forested areas. High-risk areas include:

Eastern Russia and Siberia
Parts of China and Japan
Western Russia
Austria
Hungary
The Balkans
Czech Republic
Slovakia
Scandinavia

Signs and Symptoms

The initial symptoms of Tick-borne Encephalitis usually occur one to two weeks after a tick bite and include fever, headache, and general flu-like illness. Sufferers may also complain of nausea, muscle pain, lethargy, and general discomfort. Some patients may go on to develop Encephalitis, which can cause paralysis and can be fatal in some cases.

Prevention/Vaccine

Travellers should consider being vaccinated against Tick-Bourne Encephalitis if they are at risk of tick bites when working walking or camping in endemic areas. The vaccination requires a course of three doses for full protection. The second dose is given one to three months after the first dose and provides immunity for about one year. A third dose, given 5–12 months after the second, provides immunity for up to three years.