What we know about the deadly tick-borne virus detected in the UK

TBE is already common in many parts of Europe and is an important cause of viral infections in the central nervous system, according to the World Health Organization.

By: Lifestyle Desk

New Delhi | April 6, 2023 09:10 AM IST

3 min read

TBEV is already common in many parts of Europe, and is an importance cause of viral infections in the central nervous system, according to the World Health Organization. (Source: Pixabay)

After cases were spotted across the UK, authorities have warned of the “likely” presence of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in the country. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), in an official statement, said that three cases of probable or confirmed tick-borne encephalitis acquired in England have been found since 2019, including one linked to the Yorkshire area last year. They said that a 50-year-old man from Yorkshire presented with fatigue, muscle pain, and fever five days after being bitten by a tick while mountain biking in a forest. After initially recovering, his fever returned a week later with a headache and loss of coordination. MRI scans showed changes in keeping with viral encephalitis.

TBE is already common in many parts of Europe and is an important cause of viral infections in the central nervous system, according to the World Health Organization. It can cause a range of illnesses, from completely asymptomatic infection to mild flu-like illness to severe infection in the central nervous system such as meningitis or encephalitis.

Adding to this, Dr Anurag Saxena, HOD- Internal Medicine, Primus Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi said, “Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is spread by tick bites. Fever, headaches, muscle pain, and fatigue are just a few possible symptoms. Neurological signs like disorientation, agitation, seizures, and paralysis can occasionally manifest.”

While the risk to the general public is low, the UKHSA has recommended changes to testing in hospitals to ensure cases are detected early, particularly given its asymptomatic presentation in some people.

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UKHSA deputy director Meera Chand said, “Our surveillance suggests that tick-borne encephalitis virus is very uncommon in the UK. Ticks also carry various other infections, including Lyme disease, so take steps to reduce your chances of being bitten when outdoors in areas where ticks thrive.”

“Although the risk to the general public is very low, it is important for people to take precautions to protect themselves from tick bites, such as covering their ankles and legs, applying insect repellent and checking clothes and your body for ticks, particularly when visiting areas with long grass such as woods, moorlands, and parks,” said Dr Helen Callaby, of the UKHSA.

Concluding, Dr Saxena said, “The best defence against TBE exposure is vaccination, which is accessible to those at risk. When in tick-infested regions, it’s crucial to take preventative measures, including donning protective clothing and routinely checking for ticks.”

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