What happens when an encephalitis tick bites? - briefly
A bite can introduce tick‑borne encephalitis virus, causing fever, headache, and inflammation of the brain and meninges within days to weeks. Early flu‑like symptoms may advance to neurological deficits, seizures, or paralysis if untreated.
What happens when an encephalitis tick bites? - in detail
A tick that carries encephalitis virus injects saliva into the skin while feeding. The saliva contains anticoagulants and immunomodulatory proteins that facilitate blood intake and create a pathway for the virus to enter the host’s bloodstream.
At the bite site the skin may redden or form a small papule. This local reaction is often mild and may disappear within a day, providing little indication of infection.
After entry, the virus replicates at the inoculation point and spreads via peripheral nerves and the circulatory system. The incubation period ranges from 5 to 15 days, depending on the viral strain and the amount of virus transmitted.
Early systemic manifestations include fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. These nonspecific signs resemble many viral illnesses and can persist for several days.
When the virus reaches the central nervous system, neurological symptoms emerge. Common findings are altered mental status, confusion, photophobia, neck stiffness, and, in severe cases, seizures or paralysis. The severity of neurological involvement dictates the clinical outcome.
Laboratory confirmation relies on detection of viral RNA by polymerase chain reaction in cerebrospinal fluid or serum, serologic testing for specific IgM antibodies, and neuroimaging to assess inflammation.
Supportive care constitutes the main therapeutic approach. Intravenous fluids, antipyretics, and respiratory support are provided as needed. No antiviral agents have proven efficacy against most encephalitic tick-borne viruses; experimental treatments are limited to clinical trials.
Preventive strategies focus on avoiding tick exposure: use of repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers in endemic areas, regular body checks after outdoor activity, and prompt removal of attached ticks with fine‑tipped tweezers. Vaccines exist for certain tick‑borne encephalitis viruses and are recommended for high‑risk populations.