TBE continues to increase its focus on Västra Götaland – VGR

Last year, 121 people were diagnosed with TBE in Västra Götaland. The number of confirmed cases is higher than before. Since 2022, Smittskydd Västra Götaland recommends TBE vaccination for everyone over three years of age in Västra Götaland who spends time in nature.

Illness poses a heavy burden on the individual and health care. So vaccination is the best protection if transmitted in nature where ticks thrive, says Thomas Wahlberg, MD, an infectious disease physician.

TBE is a viral disease spread by ticks that can cause severe inflammation of the brain. Most people who become ill have mild symptoms such as fever and headache, and recover after a few days. The majority of those who develop severe TBE recover completely, but up to 40 percent have long-term or permanent problems.

It can be active in winter

There is no cure for TBE, but the disease can be prevented by vaccination. To get adequate protection, vaccination should be done well before tick season.

Ticks are usually active from April to November, but if the temperature is more than 5°C, they can also be active in winter.

If tick season has already begun, it's not too late to get vaccinated.

Ticks can also transmit Lyme disease

Another tick-borne disease is Lyme disease, which can also cause neurological symptoms. Unlike TBE, this disease is caused by bacteria and can be treated with antibiotics. There is no vaccine against Lyme disease.

Ticks thrive best in moist, shady places with tall grass, shrubs, and forests. You can also find ticks in parks. Ticks do not tolerate drought.

It is possible to reduce the risk of tick bites, for example by wearing covered clothing when in areas where ticks are present.

Text: Johanna Bernhardsson
[email protected]

more information:

For questions about TBE vaccination, read more at Location 1177 Or contact the health center or vaccination clinic.