TBEvirusspecifikke

TBEvirusspecifikke refers to the Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), a member of the Flaviviridae family and genus Flavivirus. It is an enveloped, single-stranded positive-sense RNA virus that circulates in temperate regions and is transmitted primarily by ixodid ticks. Humans are incidental hosts, acquiring infection through tick bites or, less commonly, consumption of unpasteurized dairy products from infected animals.

TBEV is divided into several genetic lineages, the major ones being European (TBEV-Eu), Siberian (TBEV-Sib), and Far Eastern (TBEV-FE). These subtypes share many features but can differ in geographic distribution, ecological dynamics, and disease severity. Related flaviviruses include louping-ill virus and others found in neighboring regions.

The viral genome encodes a single large polyprotein that is processed into structural proteins C, prM, and E, and non-structural proteins NS1–NS5. The envelope protein (E) is a key antigen for neutralizing antibodies and is central to serological diagnostics. TBEV replicates in dendritic cells and subsequently disseminates to the central nervous system in severe cases.

Clinical disease ranges from asymptomatic infection to febrile illness and, in a subset of patients, tick-borne encephalitis with meningitis or encephalitis. Incubation is typically 7–14 days. Neurological involvement can lead to long-term sequelae or, less commonly, fatal outcomes. Diagnosis relies on serology (IgM and IgG) and molecular tests in early illness, with neutralization assays used for confirmation due to flavivirus cross-reactivity.

Prevention focuses on tick avoidance and vaccination. Vaccines are available in many endemic areas and are effective at preventing clinical disease; booster schedules vary by product and region. Public health measures include surveillance, risk communication, and efforts to reduce tick exposure in high-risk settings.