Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is a virus that can cause a severe, sometimes fatal, neurological disease in humans and other animals. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, and neck stiffness, followed by confusion, impaired vision, and, in some cases, paralysis. Most cases of TBEV occur in Europe and Asia, though it has been identified in other parts of the world. TBEV is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick, and treatment includes medications to reduce the symptoms of encephalitis, supportive care, and in some cases, antiviral therapies. Vaccines are also available to help protect against the virus. Research is continuing to develop new treatments and vaccines to control TBEV infection.