When does the temperature of an encephalitis tick rise? - briefly
The fever associated with tick‑borne encephalitis typically begins 3–5 days after the tick bite, coinciding with the onset of flu‑like symptoms. Temperature peaks during the acute phase, usually within the first week of illness.
When does the temperature of an encephalitis tick rise? - in detail
The rise in body temperature associated with tick‑borne encephalitis follows a characteristic pattern that clinicians use to recognize the disease early.
The incubation period after a bite from an infected tick usually lasts 7‑14 days. During this interval the virus replicates in the skin and regional lymph nodes without causing measurable systemic signs.
First clinical phase
- Onset: abrupt appearance of fever, often reaching 38.5‑40 °C.
- Accompanying symptoms: headache, malaise, myalgia, nausea, and sometimes a mild rash.
- Duration: 1‑5 days, after which the fever may subside temporarily.
Second clinical phase (occurs in 30‑40 % of patients)
- Re‑emergence of fever, frequently higher than in the initial stage.
- Neurological manifestations appear: meningeal irritation, seizures, ataxia, or paresis.
- Fever persists for several days, sometimes accompanied by elevated inflammatory markers (e.g., C‑reactive protein) and leukocytosis.
Factors influencing the timing and intensity of the temperature increase include:
- Viral load introduced by the tick.
- Host age and immune status; children and immunocompromised individuals often develop fever earlier and with higher peaks.
- Presence of co‑infection with other tick‑borne pathogens, which may augment the febrile response.
Laboratory confirmation typically shows a rise in serum IgM antibodies against the TBE virus 5‑7 days after fever onset, supporting the clinical timeline.
Early recognition of the biphasic fever pattern is essential for prompt supportive care and, when indicated, antiviral therapy, reducing the risk of severe neurological complications.