The Long Term Effects of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Infection

Tick-borne encephalitis, or TBE, is a viral infection that can affect your central nervous system. TBE is transmitted through bites of an infected tick, usually of the Ixodidae family. These ticks are found in most parts of Asia and Europe, including some regions of England.

Grassy areas are the usual habitats of ticks; therefore, you are more at risk of being bitten by infected ticks if you engage in activities such as hiking and camping. The cases of TBE have been rapidly growing.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reported that TBE cases in endemic areas have escalated by nearly 400% in the last three decades. This is fast becoming a public health concern, making the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine a necessity, especially for travellers.

tick-borne encephalitis

Symptoms of Tick-borne Encephalitis

Some people infected with TBE do not exhibit any symptoms, while for others, initial symptoms include:

●     Fever

●     Loss of appetite

●     Aches

●     Headache

●     Vomiting

●     Nausea

●     Weakness

In severe cases, TBE can manifest in two phases. A few days after the initial symptoms resolve, a more severe condition develops when the brain and spinal cord swell. This state is characterized by the following:

●     Weakness of the limbs

●     Loss of coordination

●     Confusion

●     Difficulty speaking

●     Seizures

Serious cases in children are usually limited to meningitis or infection of the spinal cord or membranes around the brain. However, adults over 40 have an increased risk of developing encephalitis or brain infection during the second phase of TBE, with a higher mortality rate.

Long Term Effects

Former TBE patients report still experiencing long-term problems resulting from brain damage years after recovery. It made a difficult impact on their daily life. Complications include:

●     Impaired memory and concentration

●     Decline in balance and motor abilities

●     Decreased motivation and initiative

●     Persistent headaches and fatigue

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you or a family member suspects getting exposed to TBE, your healthcare provider can diagnose you based on your travel history, signs and symptoms or by running a laboratory test of your blood or spinal fluid.

There is currently no antiviral therapy used to cure TBE. Instead, over-the-counter pain medications are given to relieve symptoms, with a lot of fluid intake and rest. In severe cases, supportive management is provided in hospitals. However, a tick-borne encephalitis vaccine in Sutton is available and is considered the most effective infection prevention method. Anna Pharmacy is committed to providing hassle-free services for your vaccine requirements. Book an appointment with us today.

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