What is it?

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infectious disease involving the central nervous system.

 

How is it spread?

It is spread to humans by the bite of a small spider-like parasite called a tick. 

Less commonly the disease can be spread through drinking unpasteurised milk from infected animals, especially goats.

Most human infections are contracted during outdoor leisure pursuits such as forestry working, camping, rambling and mountain biking, during tick season (spring to early autumn).

 

Advice for Travellers?

Bite avoidance must be emphasised to all travellers e.g.protecting the skin with clothing, tucking long trousers into socks, insect repellents and keeping to designated pathways.

Travellers should consider being vaccinated against TBE if they are risk of tick bites when working walking or camping in endemic areas.

 

For more information on advice on vaccinations and how to minimise your exposure to TBE please call us or visit us in store.