Some epidemiological data on TBE and Lyme borreliosis in Croatia

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral neurological zoonotic disease transmitted to humans by ticks or by consumption of unpasteurized dairy products from infected cows, goats, or sheep. TBE is highly endemic in areas of Central and Eastern Europe and Russia where it is a major public health concern. However, it is difficult to diagnose TBE as clinical manifestations tend to be relatively nonspecific and a standardized case definition does not exist across the region. TBE is becoming more important in Europe due to the appearance of new endemic areas.Few Central European Vaccination Awareness Group (CEVAG) member countries have implemented universal vaccination programmes against TBE and vaccination coverage is not considered sufficient to control the disease. When implemented, immunization strategies only apply to risk groups under certain conditions, with no harmonized recommendations available to date across the region. Effective vaccination programmes are essential in preventing the burden of TBE. This review examines the current situation of TBE in CEVAG countries and contains recommendations for the vaccination of children and high-risk groups.For countries at very high risk of TBE infections, CEVAG strongly recommends the introduction of universal TBE vaccination in children > 1 y of age onwards. For countries with a very low risk of TBE, recommendations should only apply to those traveling to endemic areas. Overall, it is generally accepted that each country should be free to make its own decision based on regional epidemiological data and the vaccination calendar, although recommendations should be made, especially for those living in endemic areas.

show abstract

“…Recently, two new natural foci have emerged in the central mountainous region, south of the river Sava. 23 , 24 …”

Section: Croatiamentioning

confidence: 99%

Recommendations for tick-borne encephalitis vaccination from the Central European Vaccination Awareness Group (CEVAG)

Zavadska

Anca

André³

et al. 2013

Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

“…The highest TBE incidence was recorded in the northwestern counties of Croatia and in the age group of 50–59 years. Most infections (73%) were recorded from May to July [ 154 ]. There are also reports of foodborne TBE in Croatia.…”

Section: Epidemiology Of Tbe Virus Infection: Global Distribution And...mentioning

confidence: 99%

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus: A Comprehensive Review of Transmission, Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, and Prevention

et al. 2023

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), a member of the Flaviviridae family, can cause serious infection of the central nervous system in humans, resulting in potential neurological complications and fatal outcomes. TBEV is primarily transmitted to humans through infected tick bites, and the viral agent circulates between ticks and animals, such as deer and small mammals. The occurrence of the infection aligns with the seasonal activity of ticks. As no specific antiviral therapy exists for TBEV infection, treatment approaches primarily focus on symptomatic relief and support. Active immunization is highly effective, especially for individuals in endemic areas. The burden of TBEV infections is increasing, posing a growing health concern. Reported incidence rates rose from 0.4 to 0.9 cases per 100,000 people between 2015 and 2020. The Baltic and Central European countries have the highest incidence, but TBE is endemic across a wide geographic area. Various factors, including social and environmental aspects, improved medical awareness, and advanced diagnostics, have contributed to the observed increase. Diagnosing TBEV infection can be challenging due to the non-specific nature of the initial symptoms and potential co-infections. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management, prevention of complications, and effective control measures. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the molecular structure of TBEV, its transmission and circulation in natural environments, the pathogenesis of TBEV infection, the epidemiology and global distribution of the virus, associated risk factors, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic approaches. By improving understanding of these aspects, we aim to enhance knowledge and promote strategies for timely and accurate diagnosis, appropriate management, and the implementation of effective control measures against TBEV infections.

show abstract

“…The total number of reported human TBE cases in Croatia from 2009 to 2020 ranged from 6 in 2016 (mean incidence of 0.15/100,000 inhabitants) to 45 in 2012 (mean incidence of 1.1/100,000 inhabitants) [ 33 ]. Historically, TBE cases were restricted to the northwestern continental parts of the country [ 34 , 35 ], and currently, endemicity remains highest in northwestern counties, with a mean incidence of 3.6–6.8/100,000 inhabitants [ 36 ]. However, the area of TBE circulation in Croatia is expanding with the emergence of several new natural foci [ 37 ].…”

Section: Disease Epidemiologymentioning

confidence: 99%

Recommendations to Improve Tick-Borne Encephalitis Surveillance and Vaccine Uptake in Europe

et al. 2022

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

There has been an increase in reported TBE cases in Europe since 2015, reaching a peak in some countries in 2020, highlighting the need for better management of TBE risk in Europe. TBE surveillance is currently limited, in part, due to varying diagnostic guidelines, access to testing, and awareness of TBE. Consequently, TBE prevalence is underestimated and vaccination recommendations inadequate. TBE vaccine uptake is unsatisfactory in many TBE-endemic European countries. This review summarizes the findings of a scientific workshop of experts to improve TBE surveillance and vaccine uptake in Europe. Strategies to improve TBE surveillance and vaccine uptake should focus on: aligning diagnostic criteria and testing across Europe; expanding current vaccine recommendations and reducing their complexity; and increasing public education of the potential risks posed by TBEV infection.

show abstract

Some epidemiological data on TBE and Lyme borreliosis in Croatia

Cited by 14 publications

References 1 publication

Recommendations for tick-borne encephalitis vaccination from the Central European Vaccination Awareness Group (CEVAG)

Recommendations for tick-borne encephalitis vaccination from the Central European Vaccination Awareness Group (CEVAG)

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus: A Comprehensive Review of Transmission, Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, and Prevention

Recommendations to Improve Tick-Borne Encephalitis Surveillance and Vaccine Uptake in Europe

Contact Info

Product

Resources

About