Tick-Borne Encephalitis: Why is Vaccination Important?

Tick-borne encephalitis is a severe disease that can cause inflammation in the brain and symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, muscle pain, and even neurological disorders.

Unfortunately, ticks can easily and quickly bite and detach unnoticed not only in the forest but also in urban areas. What to do? One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from this disease is to get vaccinated.

Higher Risk in Summer

Tick-borne encephalitis is prevalent in many European countries, especially in the Baltic region. This is mainly associated with the increase in tick populations as winters become milder. However, ticks are most active in spring and summer. The risk of infection is further increased by the fact that people spend more time in nature where the numbers of ticks are even higher. Vaccination is an effective way to protect against this disease and avoid its dangerous consequences. By getting vaccinated, the immune system produces antibodies that help the body recognize and destroy the virus. Thus, with vaccination, trips to the lake or forest are much more peaceful. Vaccines against tick-borne encephalitis provide long-term protection and reduce the likelihood of future infections.

Dangers of Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis is a dangerous infectious disease. While most infected people experience only flu-like symptoms and fully recover, some face more severe and long-term consequences. One of the biggest dangers is that the disease can cause inflammation of the brain and various complications of the neurological system, including headaches, dizziness, muscle pain, paralysis, seizures, and cognitive impairments. In severe cases, the disease can cause long-term damage to the brain and central nervous system. Tick-borne encephalitis has no specific treatment, so treatment usually involves only alleviating symptoms and supporting bodily functions. Treatment can be expensive, long-term, and may require hospitalization, so the danger should not be underestimated.

Symptoms of Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Symptoms of tick-borne encephalitis can vary depending on the patient and the course of the disease. It should be noted that some people may be asymptomatic or experience only mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms leading to long-term neurological damage. Therefore, if there is even the slightest suspicion of tick-borne encephalitis, it is essential to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Most Common Symptoms

• Fever. Most patients experience fever, and the temperature can rise very high.
• Headache. A common symptom is headache, both throbbing and persistent.
• Muscle pain and joint pain. Those infected often feel muscle pain and joint pain - similar to having the flu.
• Fatigue and weakness. A person often feels extreme fatigue and overall weakness.
• Severe dizziness. Another very unpleasant symptom causing a feeling of instability is constant dizziness.
• Nausea and vomiting. Some infected individuals often feel nausea and vomit.
• Unpleasant sensations. Unpleasant sensations such as tingling, numbness, or burning in the body may occur.
• Neurological symptoms. During the progression of the disease, neurological symptoms may appear, with coordination disturbances, muscle weakness, or even paralysis.

Vaccination - Highly Recommended

Tick-borne encephalitis is a serious disease that can cause lifelong consequences. When venturing into nature, it is important to take precautions, such as wearing appropriate clothing, using insect repellents, avoiding grass, bushes, and, of course, monitoring your health after a tick bite. However, vaccination is an extremely effective way to protect against this disease. It is important to remember that vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect your health, with minimal side effects. The best personal recommendations will be provided by a doctor or another qualified specialist.