What will happen if a person is bitten by an encephalitis tick? - briefly
The bite can transmit the virus that causes «tick‑borne encephalitis», producing fever, headache, and possible brain inflammation within days to weeks. Prompt medical evaluation and supportive treatment are required to limit neurological complications.
What will happen if a person is bitten by an encephalitis tick? - in detail
A bite from a tick infected with the tick‑borne encephalitis (TBE) virus initiates a cascade of events that can progress from a painless skin puncture to severe neurologic disease.
The initial wound is typically unnoticed; the tick remains attached for several hours, during which salivary secretions containing the virus may be introduced into the dermis. Transmission does not occur instantly; the virus usually requires at least 24 hours of feeding to reach sufficient concentrations for infection.
After entry, the virus replicates locally in skin cells and migrates to regional lymph nodes. An incubation period of 7–14 days follows, during which the host may feel well. In approximately one‑third of cases, a biphasic course develops:
First phase – nonspecific flu‑like manifestations:
- fever
- headache
- malaise
- myalgia
- nausea
These symptoms resolve spontaneously after 2–5 days. A brief asymptomatic interval may precede the second phase, which involves the central nervous system.
Second phase – neurologic involvement:
- high fever
- severe headache
- neck stiffness
- photophobia
- altered mental status, ranging from confusion to coma
- focal neurological deficits (e.g., paresis, ataxia)
- seizures in severe cases
Complications can include long‑term sequelae such as persistent cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, and chronic fatigue. Mortality rates vary by age and viral subtype, reaching up to 20 % in older adults.
Diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion supported by laboratory testing:
- detection of TBE‑specific IgM and IgG antibodies in serum or cerebrospinal fluid
- polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for viral RNA, useful early in infection
- imaging (MRI) to assess inflammatory changes in the brain or spinal cord
Specific antiviral therapy is unavailable. Management focuses on supportive care:
- antipyretics for fever
- intravenous fluids to maintain hydration
- anticonvulsants for seizure control
- intensive monitoring of respiratory and cardiovascular functions in severe cases
Prevention remains the most effective strategy. Recommendations include:
- avoidance of tick‑infested habitats during peak activity periods
- use of protective clothing and tick‑repellent agents containing DEET or permethrin
- thorough body examinations after outdoor exposure
- vaccination for individuals residing in or traveling to endemic regions; the vaccine induces protective antibodies and is administered in a three‑dose schedule
Prompt removal of an attached tick, ideally within 24 hours, reduces the probability of viral transmission. Early recognition of the biphasic pattern and immediate medical evaluation improve outcomes and limit the risk of permanent neurological damage.