Risk of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Exposure
The Risk of Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is prevalent in wooded areas of Eastern Europe, Asia, and rural parts of the United States. The disease shows a higher prevalence outside the U.S. when the distribution of the ixodid tick reservoir is greater. Within America, TBE is most common from April to August and follows a cyclical pattern. Individuals who engage in outdoor activities in wooded regions and those who consume raw milk are at an elevated risk of contracting TBE.
Diagnosing Tick-Borne Encephalitis
Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) shares symptoms with the flu and severe cold, making it challenging to diagnose without proper medical tests. Physicians often need to conduct tests to determine if a person has TBE. One such test involves isolating the virus from bloodwork, which can be done early in the course of the disease. Additionally, TBE is associated with elevated liver enzymes, making it essential to monitor liver function. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like hepatitis or chronic alcoholism may be at a higher risk since TBE can affect both the liver and the nervous system. If the doctor suspects that the virus has started affecting the central nervous system, they may require spinal fluid tests for an accurate diagnosis.