FSME: More cases, relatively low vaccination rates
Vaccination rates for tick-borne encephalitis (FSME) are still too low
In Bavaria, the number of cases has risen sharply in recent years
In the Free State of Bavaria, the number of cases of tick-borne encephalitis (FSME) has risen sharply in recent years. In 2021, 129 cases were reported to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), more than twice as many as in the previous year. This makes Bavaria one of the German states with the highest incidence of FSME.
The reason for the increase in cases is likely to be the mild winters and the increasing number of ticks. Ticks are active from March to October, and they can transmit the FSME virus through their bites. The virus can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to serious health problems.
Vaccination is the best way to protect against FSME. The vaccination is safe, effective, and free of charge for people who live in risk areas. In Bavaria, the risk areas include the following counties: Altötting, Berchtesgadener Land, Dachau, Deggendorf, Ebersberg, Eichstätt, Erding, Freising, Fürstenfeldbruck, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Günzburg, Ingolstadt, Landsberg am Lech, Miesbach, Mühldorf am Inn, Munich, Neuburg-Schrobenhausen, Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm, Rosenheim, Starnberg, Traunstein, Weilheim-Schongau, and Wolfratshausen.
Despite the high risk of infection, the vaccination rate in Bavaria is still relatively low. In 2021, only 18.9% of the population had been vaccinated against FSME.
FSME vaccination is safe and effective
The FSME vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect against tick-borne encephalitis. The vaccine is made from inactivated FSME virus, which means that it cannot cause the disease. The vaccine is very effective, and it can provide protection for up to three years.
The FSME vaccination is free of charge for people who live in risk areas. The vaccine can be obtained from your doctor or from your local health department.
What are the symptoms of FSME?
The symptoms of FSME can vary from person to person. Some people may only experience mild symptoms, such as a fever, headache, and muscle aches. Other people may experience more severe symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and confusion. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor immediately.
How is FSME treated?
There is no specific treatment for FSME. Treatment is focused on relieving the symptoms of the disease. Treatment may include rest, pain relievers, and fluids.
How can I prevent FSME?
The best way to prevent FSME is to get vaccinated. You can also take the following steps to reduce your risk of infection:
- Wear long sleeves and pants when you are in areas where ticks are active.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET.
- Check yourself for ticks after you have been in areas where ticks are active.
- Remove ticks promptly and properly.
