Skip to content
Fitness-and-exercise — Chronic-diseases — Mental-health — Encephalitis — Kilos — nutrition — Medical-conditions — Science — health-and-wellness — Smuggle — Bite — Tbe

Soaring Virus Threat in Austria: Critical Level Reached

Tick infestation has resurfaced, intensifying the threat of contracting tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Regrettably, there remains no known cure for this illness.

,   and  Administrator
3 min read
Lethal tick season revived, posing the threat of FSME yet again, with no known cure currently...
Lethal tick season revived, posing the threat of FSME yet again, with no known cure currently available.

Soaring Virus Threat in Austria: Critical Level Reached

Here's the Rewritten Article

TBE Season is Back: Know the Risks and Remedies

Yikes, here comes the Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) season again! TBE is one of the most severe neurological infections in Europe, and it packs a nasty punch. Brace yourself, mate, as it brings symptoms like fever, headache, gait disturbances, paralysis, and in extreme cases, even death. Here's what you need to know about TBE and how to protect yourself.

TBE is mainly transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. So, you might want to keep a keen eye on those critters hanging out on the bushes while you're enjoyin' nature's beauty. The virus is prevalent across Austria and other Central and Eastern European countries. After a tick bite, it may take between two to 28 days for TBE symptoms to appear. Don't worry, though, TBE isn't contagious from person to person.

On the Rise

Last year, we saw the highest number of TBE cases in Upper Austria (49) and Styria (22)[2]. In total, 158 poor souls were admitted to hospitals across the nation due to TBE. About half of those affected suffer from the severe form of the disease, with neurological symptoms such as meningitis, spinal cord inflammation, or nerve root inflammation. Please remember, recovery isn't always guaranteed in these severe cases.

Vaccination is the Solution

The good news is, there's a vaccine to protect you from TBE! Here in Austria, it's highly recommended that children start gettin' vaccinated from the age of one[1]. But fear not, adults and kids aged 16 years and over who face extensive tick exposure, often due to outdoor activities or travel to high-risk regions, should get vaccinated as well[3].

The TBE vaccine is given in three doses, with the second vaccination given within one to three months after the first, and the third dose between five to twelve months after[4]. Booster doses are recommended every three years for those who continue to be at risk of TBE exposure[3].

The vaccine is usually provided as at least two injections, separated by two weeks, with a third booster dose administered five to twelve months later for long-lasting protection[4]. Don't forget, you'll need a booster three years after the initial series for ongoing protection.

Protection in the Heart of TBE Country

In Vienna, the TBE vaccination campaign is emphasizing the importance of vaccination during the spring of 2025[1][2]. As tick season approaches, it's crucial to prioritize protection in endemic regions like Vienna. Remember, staying safe is better than regrettin' it later!

References:

[1] Vaccination information (Vienna): [Link]

[2] Austrian Vaccination Commission (Österreichische Impfkommission, ÖIK): [Link]

[3] European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control: [Link]

[4] World Health Organization: [Link]

  1. The growing number of cases of Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) highlights the importance of understanding the risks and remedies associated with this severe neurological disorder.
  2. Last year, Upper Austria reported 49 cases, and Styria reported 22 cases, making it the highest number of TBE cases in the country.
  3. TBE often leads to chronic medical conditions and neurological disorders, with half of the affected individuals suffering from the severe form of the disease.
  4. Science offers a solution to TBE through vaccination, which is highly recommended for children from the age of one and individuals aged 16 years and over who are at high risk due to extended tick exposure.
  5. The TBE vaccine requires three doses over a period of one year and booster doses every three years for ongoing protection.
  6. To combat the rise in TBE cases, public health initiatives like the TBE vaccination campaign in Vienna are prioritizing protection during the spring of 2025.
  7. While vaccination is vital in protecting against TBE, maintaining overall health and wellness, including fitness and exercise, mental health, and proper nutrition, is crucial in preventing the onset of chronic diseases and neurological disorders.

Read also:

    Related

    Latest