TBE facts
Tick video
How dangerous is TBE?
How do I protect myself?
Signs and Symptoms
How do I remove a tick?
How dangerous is TBE?
Ticks are second only to mosquitoes for carrying disease to humans.
TBE leads to an annual average of 10,000 cases needing hospital treatment. Two in every 100 TBE sufferers will die from the disease.
Changes in farming practices and global warming mean that there are more ticks in the countryside in many parts of Europe, including many established and new holiday destinations for outdoor tourism, for example Austria, Germany and Switzerland.
In these countries, travellers and holidaymakers visiting rural areas are at risk from tick bites. Those participating in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking/trekking, cycling, climbing are particularly at risk.
How do I protect myself?
- Use an insect repellent that is effective against ticks.
- Avoid wearing shorts in rural and wooded areas, tuck trousers into socks, or cover all exposed skin with protective clothing (though not always practical in summer).
- Inspect your skin for ticks and remove as soon as possible with fine-tipped tweezers.
- Avoid unpasteurised milk which may also be infected with the TBE virus in endemic regions.
In countries where TBE is endemic (for example Austria) the introduction of widespread vaccination has resulted in a substantial reduction in the incidence of disease. Consult your travel health provider for further information.
Signs and Symptoms
Tick Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system and can result in serious meningitis (inflammation of the tissues around the brain), encephalitis (brain inflammation) and can lead to death.
TBE progresses in two phases. In up to 20% of cases the first phase is not perceived by patients.
The first phase of illness occurs after 6-14 days. Patients complain about general symptoms normally associated with the common cold, such as:
- Increased temperature
- Headache
- Overall weakness
- Fatigue
- Intestinal problems
- Cough and sniffles
After this, symptoms indicating that the nervous system may be affected start to appear. Additional symptoms at this stage might typically be:
Meningitis symptoms
- Temperature over 39°C
- Aggravated headaches
- Neck stiffness
Encephalitis symptoms
- Impaired consciousness
- Delirium
- Cranial nerve paralysis
- Coordination problems
- Paralysis of the arms and legs
Ultimately, paralysis of the respiratory musculature can occur. Intensive treatment including artificial respiration is then essential.
There is no specific treatment for TBE.
ADV09/2799B 01/10
How do I remove a tick?
If you are using a special tool follow instructions for use. If you are using fine-tipped tweezers grasp the tick firmly and as close to your skin as possible. In a steady motion, pull the tick's body away directly outwards without jerking or twisting.