Warmer weather and more human outdoor activity brings on the risk of tick-borne infections with authorities advising that a further eight cases of tick-borne encephalitis has taken the YTD total to 27 in the NE Moravian-Silesian Region (which shares borders with Poland and Slovakia). The more-than 700 infections reported across the country last year gave the Czech Republic the highest burden of TBE in the region. Read more. Switzerland’s rates of TBE infections have returned to the averages reported prior to last year’s peak. As noted in a ProMED post, ‘the Swiss government has had a proactive tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccination program this year’ and is promoting vaccination for those at risk including people hiking in forested areas.
Advice for travellers
A viral infection, tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) can cause fever, vomiting, cramps and paralysis, which can be prolonged. In rare instances, infection can be fatal. Travellers who spend time in regions where TBE is endemic – mainly forested areas of Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, Northern China, and Mongolia – may be at risk. The highest risk is during the warmer months from April to November, especially when hiking or camping in areas below 1500m. While safe and effective vaccines are available in Europe, none are licensed in Australia; however, vaccines can be obtained by a medical practitioner through a Special Access Scheme. Read more about TBE.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.