How to know that an encephalitic tick has bitten you? - briefly
Look for a recent tick attachment on the skin together with a red rash or flu‑like symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle aches, which may suggest tick‑borne encephalitis. If these signs develop within weeks after the bite, obtain medical evaluation for serological testing and possible treatment.
How to know that an encephalitic tick has bitten you? - in detail
Ticks capable of transmitting encephalitic viruses attach firmly to the skin. Immediate identification relies on visual inspection of the bite area. Key observations include:
- Presence of a engorged arthropod, often 3–5 mm in length, attached for several hours.
- A small, punctate wound surrounded by erythema; the margin may be raised.
- Absence of a clear bite mark in early stages; the tick’s mouthparts can be seen as a dark spot at the centre of the lesion.
- Tick removal without rupture of the body; intact removal reduces risk of pathogen release.
After removal, systemic manifestations may develop within 7–14 days. Typical progression:
- Prodromal phase (2–7 days): fever, headache, malaise, myalgia, and occasional nausea.
- Neurological phase (5–10 days after onset): stiff neck, photophobia, altered mental status, seizures, or focal neurological deficits.
- Recovery or severe complications: ataxia, paralysis, or long‑term cognitive impairment.
Laboratory confirmation involves:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on blood or cerebrospinal fluid to detect viral RNA.
- Serological assays measuring IgM and IgG antibodies against the encephalitic virus.
- Paired serum samples taken 2–3 weeks apart to demonstrate seroconversion.
Prompt removal technique:
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine‑point tweezers.
- Apply steady upward traction; avoid twisting or crushing the body.
- Disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic solution.
- Preserve the tick in a sealed container for possible identification and testing.
Continuous monitoring for at least three weeks after the bite is advisable. Any emergence of neurological symptoms warrants immediate medical evaluation, including neuroimaging and lumbar puncture, to initiate antiviral or supportive therapy.