How dangerous is the encephalitis tick for humans? - briefly
The encephalitis‑carrying tick can transmit a virus that causes severe neurological illness, with a mortality rate of up to 1 % and frequent long‑term impairments among survivors. Immediate tick removal and vaccination in high‑risk regions markedly lower the probability of infection.
How dangerous is the encephalitis tick for humans? - in detail
The tick that transmits tick‑borne encephalitis (TBE) is primarily Ixodes ricinus in Europe and Ixodes persulcatus in Asia. It attaches to the skin for several days, during which the virus can be inoculated into the host’s bloodstream.
Transmission dynamics
- Virus presence in the tick’s salivary glands is required for infection.
- A single bite can deliver enough viral particles to cause disease; multiple bites do not increase severity.
- Seasonal activity peaks in spring and autumn, aligning with host‑seeking behavior.
Clinical course
- Incubation period ranges from 7 to 28 days.
- Initial phase: fever, malaise, headache, and myalgia, lasting 1–5 days.
- Second phase (in 30‑40 % of cases): meningeal irritation, ataxia, paralysis, and altered consciousness.
- Mortality rates vary by region: 1‑2 % in Western Europe, up to 20 % in Siberian subtypes.
- Long‑term sequelae, such as cognitive deficits and motor impairment, occur in 10‑30 % of survivors.
Risk factors
- Outdoor activities in endemic forests or meadows.
- Lack of vaccination; the vaccine reduces severe disease by >95 %.
- Age over 50 and immunocompromised status increase likelihood of neurological complications.
Prevention and management
- Prompt removal of attached ticks within 24 hours reduces transmission probability.
- Use of repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and wearing protective clothing, lowers exposure.
- Post‑exposure prophylaxis is unavailable; early antiviral therapy (e.g., ribavirin) has limited evidence.
- Supportive care, including hydration, antipyretics, and, when indicated, corticosteroids, is the mainstay during the neurologic phase.
- Rehabilitation programs improve recovery of motor and cognitive functions.
Overall, the TBE‑carrying tick poses a substantial health threat in endemic regions, especially to unvaccinated adults. Effective control relies on vaccination, personal protective measures, and rapid medical response after a bite.