Getting to Know: Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) – Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Introduction: Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a viral disease transmitted by ticks that can lead to inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. While most cases result in mild symptoms, approximately a third of individuals can experience severe complications. Vaccination offers effective protection against TBE.
Understanding TBE: TBE stands for Tick-Borne Encephalitis, a virus-driven infection transmitted by tick bites. Encephalitis refers to inflammation of the brain. The disease occurs primarily during the active period of ticks, which spans spring, summer, and autumn.
Causes of TBE: TBE is caused by a flavivirus transmitted through tick bites. It primarily occurs during the tick’s active period, from spring to autumn. The virus is not transmitted between individuals.
TBE – Incubation Period: The incubation period for TBE, which is the time between infection and symptom onset, typically ranges from 10 to 14 days. Symptoms can manifest earlier or later in some cases. Importantly, TBE is not transmitted directly from person to person.
Symptoms of TBE: TBE symptoms are often divided into two phases:
- First Phase: Lasting around four to five days, this phase includes typical symptoms of viral diseases such as fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and dizziness. Most individuals recover fully during this phase.
- Second Phase: Occurring approximately one week later in one-fourth of cases, the virus reaches the central nervous system. This phase presents with symptoms like neck stiffness, severe headache, sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting, and additional neurological symptoms.
TBE – Risk Areas: TBE virus is most common in southern and central Sweden, particularly regions including Stockholm, Sörmland, Uppsala, and Västra Götaland. The Baltic coast and areas around Lake Mälaren, Lake Vänern, and Lake Vättern are particularly affected. The risk area extends from Skåne to Gävleborg, and the trend indicates a gradual westward spread into Värmland, Västmanland, and Örebro.
TBE Vaccine: Vaccination against TBE is recommended for individuals living or spending time in high-risk areas, especially those frequently exposed to forests and grasslands. The vaccine is administered in three doses according to a specific schedule for optimal protection. Booster doses are required every three and five years after the initial vaccination.
Preventing TBE: Even with vaccination, protecting against tick bites is essential as they can transmit TBE and other diseases. Key preventive measures include wearing protective clothing outdoors, promptly removing ticks, and seeking medical attention if bitten.
Treatment for TBE: There is no cure for TBE, and hospitalization is often required for encephalitis cases. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms. While children typically experience milder illness, older individuals face a higher risk of severe complications. Most individuals recover completely, but around a third may develop long-lasting problems, including fatigue and memory issues. While TBE can be fatal, the risk is low. Having had TBE once results in lifelong immunity.
Seeking Medical Care: If you experience a tick bite and develop symptoms such as a stiff neck, muscle aches, and high fever suggestive of encephalitis, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention, including emergency care if necessary.