Tick-borne encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection of the brain and surrounding tissues caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). It is spread mainly through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the Ixodes species. In some cases, people can also get it by drinking unpasteurized milk from infected animals like goats or cows. The virus attacks the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, causing inflammation that can lead to serious neurological problems. The illness often happens in two stages. The first stage feels like a typical flu, with fever, headache, muscle aches, and tiredness. Many people recover at this point. However, in about one-third of cases, the illness moves into a second, more serious stage where the virus reaches the brain. This can cause encephalitis (brain inflammation), meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain), or both. Symptoms in this stage include severe headache, high fever, confusion, difficulty with balance and coordination, and in serious cases, paralysis or seizures. There is no specific antiviral drug to treat TBE once someone is infected. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the body through the illness, often in a hospital setting. The good news is that a safe and effective vaccine exists to prevent TBE, and it is widely recommended for people living in or traveling to high-risk areas. Most people recover, but some are left with lasting neurological effects. TBE is also sometimes called Central European encephalitis or Russian spring-summer encephalitis, depending on the virus subtype.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.What stage of TBE do I have, and how severe is my infection based on my test results?,What symptoms should prompt me to go to the emergency room immediately?,How long is my recovery likely to take, and what does rehabilitation look like for me?,Are there any lasting neurological effects I should watch for, and how will they be monitored?,Should my family members or travel companions be vaccinated, and which vaccine is recommended?,Are there any clinical trials or new treatments for TBE that I might be eligible for?,What support services are available to help me return to work or school after recovery?

Common questions about Tick-borne encephalitis

Related conditions

Other rare diseases commonly researched alongside Tick-borne encephalitis.

• Japanese encephalitis→