Chapter 13: TBE as a matter of public health

Abstract

The incidence of TBE ranges from ‘only single sporadic cases’ to >50/105 per year depending on the region and on the year of analysis; it is usually 1-10/105 in endemic regions in central Europe. This number may be considered as ‘low’ – not only as an individual risk but also from a public health perspective. If an individual does contract TBE, however, the disease may deeply change her/his life due to the need for acute hospital care and due to potentially severe and long-term sequelae. In 1–2% (-20%) of cases, TBE may even result in death. No specific treatments exist for TBE. The severity of the disease and high frequency of long-term sequelae result in high public awareness and concerns about tick bites in endemic areas. Public health officials in TBE-endemic areas need to address these concerns; moreover, they need to address the concerns of travelers at risk. The principal public health measures aim at reducing TBE cases by reduction of exposure and preventive vaccination. Recommendation/reimbursement of TBE vaccination still is under discussion from side of healthcare payer perspective as well as from the individuals perspective considering long term sequelae.