Only seven TBE cases in Hesse: Was the risk exaggerated?

Only seven TBE cases in Hesse: Was the risk exaggerated?

This year, ticks are once again in the focus of health authorities. So far, seven cases of TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) have been registered in Hesse. However, the Hessian Ministry of Health emphasizes that there is no increase in the number of cases compared to previous years. This disease is transmitted by ticks, especially the common wood tick, which, however, is rather sluggish in the current heat period. While invasive tick species such as the hyaloma tick become active at high temperatures, they are only rarely found in Hesse, reports Borken newspaper.

Complete vaccination protection against TBE is essential. But even if the vaccination protects against TBE, it remains an isolated case and does not offer protection against other tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease. Therefore, additional protective measures are important. These include: regularly checking your body for ticks, using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved, tight clothing when spending time in nature.

Focus on risk areas

Knowledge of TBE risk areas is particularly important. These areas are defined as counties that have had at least one case per 100,000 residents in the last five years. The disease rate in risk areas can be up to 40 cases per 100,000 inhabitants within five years. In Hesse, the risk areas include the cities of Offenbach and Darmstadt as well as the districts of Bergstrasse, Darmstadt-Dieburg, and Fulda. However, TBE can also occur outside of these areas Health information explained.

There are ticks all over Germany, and even if they carry TBE viruses less frequently in northern Germany, they are still widespread. Protective measures are therefore important not only in the risk areas listed, but also in regions where ticks occur. These measures include the TBE vaccination, which is particularly recommended for people who live in or travel in risk areas, such as Tick ​​website informed.

What to do if you are bitten by a tick?

Looking at vigilance after a tick bite is also very important. Quickly removing the sucked tick can significantly reduce the risk of pathogen transmission. Care should be taken not to squeeze the tick, as this can promote the transmission of Borrelia. If the skin area changes or flu-like symptoms occur, you should see a doctor immediately. The disease can be easily treated with antibiotics, especially in the early phase.

The Standing Vaccination Commission fully recommends getting vaccinated for TBE if you are planning a trip to risk areas or live there. The costs of the vaccination are usually covered by statutory health insurance companies, which makes the decision in favor of vaccination protection easier.

Overall, the warning about ticks remains important because even if the current numbers in Hesse are stable, your health is always at risk if you do not actively protect yourself. As the summer months draw us outside, it is important to exercise caution and practice the safest variations of communion with nature.