Mosquitoes: Significantly more cases of TBE - low risk of infection in North Rhine-Westphalia

Much more frequent than expected

The number of people infected with tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in Germany has increased significantly in recent years. In 2022, around 700 cases were reported to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), which is almost twice as many as in the previous year. The increase is particularly pronounced in the federal states of Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria and Hesse. In North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), on the other hand, the number of cases has remained at a low level. In 2022, 14 cases were reported to the NRW State Center for Health (LZG). This is only slightly more than in the previous year (13 cases).

Vaccination is recommended in risk areas

TBE is a viral disease that is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The symptoms of TBE can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. In severe cases, TBE can be fatal. There is no specific treatment for TBE, but the disease can be prevented by vaccination. Vaccination is recommended for people who live in or travel to risk areas. TBE is mainly transmitted in forests and meadows. The risk of infection is highest in the spring and summer months.

Here are some tips to reduce your risk of TBE:

• Avoid wooded and bushy areas during peak tick season (April to October).
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat when you are in wooded areas.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
• Check your body for ticks after spending time in wooded areas.
• Remove ticks promptly and properly.
• Get vaccinated against TBE if you live in or travel to a risk area.