What is the name of the tick that transmits encephalitis? - briefly
The blacklegged tick (« Ixodes scapularis ») is the principal vector of Powassan virus encephalitis.
What is the name of the tick that transmits encephalitis? - in detail
The primary vector of tick‑borne encephalitis in Europe and parts of Asia is the hard tick «Ixodes ricinus». In eastern regions, the closely related species «Ixodes persulcatus» also serves as a carrier. Both belong to the family Ixodidae and are commonly referred to as the sheep tick or castor bean tick.
Key characteristics of the vector:
- Habitat: deciduous and mixed forests, grasslands, and shrubbery where host mammals such as rodents, deer, and livestock are abundant.
- Life cycle: three active stages (larva, nymph, adult) each requiring a blood meal; nymphs are most often implicated in virus transmission to humans.
- Seasonal activity: peak questing activity occurs from spring through early autumn, with nymphal activity highest in late spring and early summer.
The virus transmitted, tick‑borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), belongs to the Flaviviridae family. Transmission occurs when an infected tick attaches to the skin and feeds for several hours, allowing viral particles to enter the host’s bloodstream. After an incubation period of 7–14 days, clinical manifestations range from mild flu‑like symptoms to severe neurological involvement, including meningitis, encephalitis, or meningoencephalitis.
Prevention measures focus on reducing exposure to the vector:
- Wear long sleeves and trousers when entering endemic habitats.
- Apply permethrin‑treated clothing and use EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin.
- Perform thorough body checks after outdoor activities; remove attached ticks promptly with fine‑tipped forceps, grasping close to the mouthparts and pulling steadily.
- Vaccination against TBEV is available in many European countries and offers effective protection for high‑risk individuals.
Understanding the ecology of «Ixodes ricinus» and «Ixodes persulcatus» is essential for targeted public‑health interventions, surveillance, and education aimed at minimizing the incidence of tick‑borne encephalitis.