What will happen if an encephalitis tick crawls over the body? - briefly
If the tick attaches and feeds, it may transmit the encephalitic virus, causing fever, headache and possible neurological complications. If it only crawls over the skin without biting, no infection is expected.
What will happen if an encephalitis tick crawls over the body? - in detail
A tick that carries the virus responsible for tick‑borne encephalitis (TBE) can pose a health risk even before it attaches to the skin. When such a tick walks over the body, the following sequence of events may occur:
- Initial contact – The tick searches for a suitable attachment site. If it encounters hair or clothing, it may pause, increasing the likelihood of finding a spot with thin skin.
- Attachment – Within a few minutes to several hours, the tick inserts its mouthparts into the epidermis and begins to anchor itself with cement‑like secretions.
- Feeding phase – Blood ingestion starts after the tick’s hypostome penetrates the dermis. The feeding period lasts from 24 hours up to several days, during which the tick expands its body and secretes saliva containing anticoagulants and immunomodulatory proteins.
- Virus transmission – The TBE virus is typically present in the tick’s salivary glands. Transmission to the host most often occurs after the tick has been attached for at least 24 hours, although earlier transfer is possible if the tick is heavily infected.
- Incubation – After successful inoculation, the virus replicates locally before spreading to the central nervous system. The incubation period ranges from 7 to 14 days, occasionally extending to a month.
- Clinical manifestations – Early symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. Progression to the neurological phase may involve meningitis, encephalitis, or meningoencephalitis, characterized by stiff neck, confusion, seizures, and, in severe cases, paralysis or death.
- Diagnostic considerations – Serologic testing for specific IgM antibodies or PCR detection of viral RNA in blood or cerebrospinal fluid confirms infection.
- Therapeutic approach – No antiviral drug is approved for TBE; treatment focuses on supportive care, management of intracranial pressure, and prevention of secondary complications.
- Preventive measures – Immediate removal of the tick within 24 hours markedly reduces transmission risk. Use of repellents containing DEET or permethrin, wearing long sleeves, and performing regular body checks after outdoor exposure are essential preventive strategies.
In summary, a TBE‑carrying tick that traverses the skin can become attached, feed, and potentially transmit a neurotropic virus. Prompt detection and removal, combined with vigilant monitoring for febrile and neurological signs, are critical for minimizing severe outcomes.