Tick-Borne Disease

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus (TBEV) Detected in England: A New Risk for Public Health

A recent risk assessment, published by a multi-agency cross-government committee, has alerted the public to the presence of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) in England. The assessment is based on both human cases and the detection of the virus in ticks across several areas of the country, including the Hampshire/Dorset border, New Forest, North York Moors, and Thetford Forest. While the risk to the general public in the UK remains very low, it is essential to understand the implications of this emerging health concern.

Tick-borne encephalitis virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks. TBEV is prevalent in many parts of Europe and Asia, particularly in forested areas. It causes a range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe infections affecting the central nervous system, such as meningitis or encephalitis. Severe cases of TBEV can result in long-term complications and, in some instances, can be fatal.

The detection of TBEV in ticks in England is a significant development that highlights the potential spread of this viral infection. Previously, TBEV had been detected in ticks in Hampshire, Dorset, and the Norfolk-Suffolk border areas. However, the recent cases acquired in Hampshire, North York Moors, and Loch Earn indicate a wider distribution of the virus within the country. It is possible that TBEV may be present in other regions as well, as the tick species responsible for its transmission is widespread in the UK.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has emphasised the importance of early detection and surveillance to prevent the further spread of TBEV. The agency has recommended changes to testing in hospitals to promptly identify any additional cases and enhance surveillance efforts, including asymptomatic surveillance in areas where TBEV has been detected. These measures aim to gather more information about the prevalence and distribution of the virus in England.

In addition to TBEV, ticks are known carriers of other diseases, including Lyme disease. Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and can lead to a range of symptoms, such as a characteristic skin rash, fatigue, joint pain, and neurological complications if left untreated. The presence of ticks carrying TBEV serves as a reminder to the public to remain vigilant and take precautions to prevent tick bites.

To reduce the risk of tick bites, individuals should follow preventive measures when venturing into tick-prone areas such as woodlands and moorlands. These measures include staying on defined tracks and paths, wearing appropriate clothing that covers the skin, using insect repellents containing DEET, and regularly checking for ticks on the body and clothing. If a tick is found, it should be carefully removed using fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool, ensuring that no mouthparts are left behind.

Public awareness and education play a crucial role in managing the risk of tick-borne diseases. The UKHSA recommends seeking medical advice if any illness follows a tick bite and seeking urgent medical attention if symptoms of meningitis or neurological complications develop. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, individuals can protect themselves from tick-borne illnesses like TBEV and Lyme disease.

The recent detection of TBEV in ticks across multiple regions of England calls for heightened vigilance, proactive surveillance, and a comprehensive public health response. Continued research and monitoring will be crucial to better understand the prevalence, distribution, and potential impact of TBEV in the UK. Through effective collaboration between health authorities, researchers, and the public, it is possible to mitigate the risks associated with tick-borne diseases and safeguard the well-being of

the population.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus (TBEV) Detected in England: A Growing Concern

The recent detection of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) in England has raised alarm among public health experts and tick scientists. Data presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases indicate that TBE cases have been on the rise in Europe, with 3,800 reported cases in 2020. This emerging trend highlights the need for increased awareness and surveillance regarding tick-borne diseases.

Tick scientists have put forth a theory that migratory birds may be responsible for introducing infected ticks into the UK. With climate change influencing bird migration patterns, it is possible that ticks carrying TBEV have found their way to England through this route. This hypothesis underscores the complex interplay between environmental factors and the spread of infectious diseases.

Professor Sally Cutler, a renowned expert in medical microbiology at the University of East London, has confirmed the presence of TBEV in ticks at low levels in the UK since 2019. She noted that the variant of the virus detected in the UK so far has been one of the milder forms. While vaccines are used to protect populations in highly endemic areas, it is currently believed that the level of protection offered by vaccination is not necessary in the UK at this time.

The tick species responsible for carrying the TBEV in the UK is Ixodes ricinus, commonly known as the sheep tick or castor bean tick. These ticks exhibit certain key features, such as a grey/brown color that changes depending on whether they are fed or unfed. The sizes of male and female ticks also vary, with fully engorged females reaching up to 11 mm in length. Ixodes ricinus feeds on a wide range of hosts, including humans, wild and domestic animals. After feeding, female ticks deposit their eggs on vegetation, continuing the life cycle of the tick.

The distribution of Ixodes ricinus spans various regions, including Ireland, Britain (particularly the West Country, Scottish Highlands, Pennines, Lake District, and North Yorkshire Moors), parts of Wales, Western and Central Europe, Algeria, Morocco, and parts of the former USSR. These ticks are commonly found in rough pastures and woodlands, thriving in environments where their hosts, such as sheep, cattle, deer, and dogs, are present.

Ticks pose several risks to both humans and animals. When ticks feed, they can embed themselves in the host's skin, causing irritation and potentially leading to tick paralysis—a rare but serious condition caused by the toxins introduced by ticks while feeding. Ixodes ticks are also responsible for transmitting Lyme disease, a significant arthropod-borne disease prevalent in Europe and North America. Although the UK strain of Lyme disease is considered relatively weak, it still affects over 1,000 people in the UK each year.

The detection of TBEV in ticks in England serves as a reminder of the importance of taking precautions to prevent tick bites and mitigate the risks associated with tick-borne diseases. Individuals should be vigilant when venturing into tick-prone areas, follow preventive measures such as wearing appropriate clothing, using insect repellents, and conducting regular checks for ticks on their bodies and clothing. Prompt removal of ticks and seeking medical advice if any symptoms arise after a tick bite are essential steps in reducing the potential impact of tick-borne diseases.

As the situation evolves, it is crucial for health authorities, researchers, and the public to collaborate and stay informed about the prevalence, distribution, and potential consequences of TBEV and other tick-borne diseases. Continued surveillance, research, and public awareness efforts will be vital in effectively managing the risks and protecting the health and well-being of individuals in the UK.

Control & Treatment

Control and Treatment of Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) in the UK

Efficient control and treatment measures are essential in managing tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in the UK. The control strategies mainly focus on identifying the host animals and implementing measures to either exclude them or treat them with appropriate veterinary products. Additionally, the use of specific treatments, such as piperonyl butoxide (PBO), can be employed to target ticks and reduce their population.

1. Host Animal Identification and Exclusion:
Identifying the host animals that harbor ticks is crucial in preventing the spread of TBE. Common host animals include deer, rodents, birds, and domesticated animals like sheep, cattle, and dogs. By understanding the ecology and behavior of these hosts, targeted control measures can be implemented. For example, reducing deer populations in specific areas can help decrease the tick population as they are an essential host for ticks at various life stages.

Exclusion methods involve creating barriers or modifying habitats to prevent host animals from coming into close contact with humans. This can be achieved through fencing, repellents, or altering the landscape to make it less suitable for host animals. For instance, creating buffer zones or modifying vegetation density in recreational areas can minimize the risk of tick exposure.

2. Veterinary Products for Host Animal Treatment:
Treating host animals with veterinary products can effectively reduce tick populations and the risk of TBE transmission. Various acaricides (tick-killing agents) are available for use on animals, such as insecticide-impregnated collars, sprays, and spot-on treatments. These products help control ticks on the treated animals, preventing them from being a source of tick infestation in the environment.

Veterinary products may contain ingredients like pyrethroids, which have insecticidal properties and can kill ticks upon contact. These treatments are typically formulated to be safe for animals while providing effective tick control. Regular use of such products, as recommended by veterinarians, can significantly reduce the number of ticks infesting host animals and subsequently decrease the risk of TBE transmission.

3. Piperonyl Butoxide (PBO) for Tick Treatment:
Piperonyl butoxide (PBO) is an insecticide synergist commonly used in combination with other insecticides, including those targeting ticks. PBO works by inhibiting certain enzymes in the ticks, enhancing the effectiveness of the primary insecticide. When combined with acaricides, PBO can improve tick control by increasing the toxicity of the insecticides and reducing the likelihood of resistance development.

The use of PBO-based treatments should be carried out following appropriate guidelines and recommendations. It is important to consider the potential effects on non-target organisms and environmental impact when using any chemical control methods.

It is worth noting that while control measures targeting host animals and treating ticks can be effective in reducing TBE transmission, personal protective measures remain crucial. Individuals venturing into tick-infested areas should take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing (long sleeves, long pants, and closed shoes) and using insect repellents containing DEET. Regular body checks and prompt removal of attached ticks are also essential to prevent tick bites and potential TBE infection.

Overall, a comprehensive approach that combines host animal management, veterinary treatments, and targeted use of acaricides, including synergists like PBO, along with personal protective measures, is necessary to effectively control and prevent the transmission of TBE in the UK. Continued research and surveillance will further enhance our understanding of tick ecology and the development of improved control strategies in the future.

Conclusion

Tick-borne diseases, including tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), pose a growing concern in the UK. The recent detection of TBEV in ticks across multiple regions of England highlights the need for increased vigilance

, public awareness, and proactive surveillance. It is crucial for individuals to take preventive measures, such as avoiding tick-infested areas, wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents, and conducting regular tick checks. Prompt removal of ticks and seeking medical advice, if any symptoms arise after a tick bite, are also important steps in managing the risks associated with tick-borne diseases. Collaboration between health authorities, researchers, and the public is vital in effectively controlling TBE and protecting the well-being of the population.

Control & Treatment

Control and Treatment of Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) in the UK

Efficient control and treatment measures are essential in managing tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in the UK. The control strategies mainly focus on identifying the host animals and implementing measures to either exclude them or treat them with appropriate veterinary......for more information about tick-borne diseases and professional pest control services, visit Pest Dominion.