Far Eastern tick-borne encephalitis [Russian spring-summer encephalitis] Save

Far Eastern tick-borne encephalitis [Russian spring-summer encephalitis]

Far Eastern tick-borne encephalitis, also known as Russian spring-summer encephalitis, is a viral infection that is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected ticks. The virus is primarily found in the Far East region of Russia, China, Japan, and Korea. However, it can also be found in other parts of Europe and Asia.

The virus belongs to the Flavivirus family, which also includes the viruses that cause dengue fever, yellow fever, and Zika virus. The symptoms of Far Eastern tick-borne encephalitis can vary from mild to severe and can include fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, the virus can affect the central nervous system and cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to seizures, paralysis, and even death.

The best way to prevent Far Eastern tick-borne encephalitis is to avoid being bitten by ticks. If you are traveling to an area where the virus is known to be present, it is recommended that you wear protective clothing, use insect repellent, and avoid wooded and grassy areas where ticks are likely to be found.

1. Wear protective clothing:

Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants that are light in color so that ticks are easier to spot. Tuck your pants into your socks or boots to prevent ticks from crawling up your legs.

2. Use insect repellent:

Use insect repellent that contains DEET or picaridin on your skin and clothing. Apply the repellent according to the instructions on the label.

3. Avoid wooded and grassy areas:

Avoid walking through wooded and grassy areas, especially during the spring and summer months when ticks are most active.

If you do get bitten by a tick, it is important to remove the tick as soon as possible. Use tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out. Do not twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin.

In conclusion, Far Eastern tick-borne encephalitis is a serious viral infection that can be prevented by taking precautions to avoid tick bites. If you are traveling to an area where the virus is known to be present, be sure to wear protective clothing, use insect repellent, and avoid wooded and grassy areas where ticks are likely to be found.