What will happen if an encephalitic tick bites you? - briefly
A bite from a tick infected with an encephalitis virus can introduce the pathogen, causing fever, headache, and inflammation of the brain or its coverings. Without prompt treatment, the condition may advance to seizures, paralysis, or fatal outcomes.
What will happen if an encephalitic tick bites you? - in detail
A bite from a tick infected with the tick‑borne encephalitis (TBE) virus initiates a clinical course that typically progresses through three stages.
The first stage appears after an incubation period of 7‑14 days. Early symptoms resemble a nonspecific viral infection: fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and sometimes nausea. Laboratory tests may show mild leukocytosis and elevated C‑reactive protein, but these findings are not diagnostic.
In roughly one‑third of cases, the disease advances to a second phase after a brief asymptomatic interval of several days. This phase is characterized by involvement of the central nervous system. Common manifestations include:
- High fever persisting for several days
- Neck stiffness and photophobia
- Altered mental status ranging from confusion to lethargy
- Focal neurological deficits such as facial palsy or limb weakness
- Seizures in severe presentations
Magnetic resonance imaging often reveals hyperintense lesions in the thalamus, basal ganglia, or brainstem. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis shows lymphocytic pleocytosis, elevated protein, and normal glucose.
A minority of patients develop a third, chronic phase marked by persistent neurological impairment. Long‑term sequelae may involve:
- Motor weakness or paralysis of extremities
- Cerebellar ataxia affecting coordination
- Cognitive deficits, especially in attention and memory
- Persistent tremor or dysarthria
Mortality rates vary by geographic region and age, ranging from 1 % in children to up to 20 % in older adults with severe disease. Early supportive care—hydration, antipyretics, and monitoring of respiratory function—reduces complications. No specific antiviral therapy exists; treatment focuses on symptom management and prevention of secondary infections.
Risk reduction relies on vaccination, which confers high protective efficacy, and on avoidance measures: wearing long clothing, using EPA‑registered repellents, and performing thorough tick checks after outdoor exposure. Prompt removal of attached ticks within 24 hours markedly lowers transmission probability.
In summary, an infected tick bite can evolve from a mild febrile illness to acute encephalitis and, in some cases, to lasting neurological damage. Prompt medical evaluation, supportive treatment, and preventive vaccination are essential to mitigate adverse outcomes.