The brain consists of a layer of thin tissue which is known as the meninges. If this becomes infected by either bacteria or a virus and inflammation occurs, then this is referred to as meningitis.
If the brain itself is attacked by viruses or invading microorganisms and infection and swelling occur, then this is known as encephalitis. If both the thin tissue and the brain are affected together, then the term meningoencephalitis is used to describe this condition.
One cause of meningoencephalitis is tick bites, and when this happens, it is registered as a case of tick-borne meningoencephalitis. Ticks are insects that feed off the blood of animals and humans. They are found in many parts of the world but more especially in Europe and Asia.
Tick-borne meningoencephalitis can be severe or mild, with many or few symptoms developing. In rare cases, these bites that can infect humans with viruses can lead to death.
Symptoms of tick-borne meningoencephalitis can include a persistent fever and headache, photosensitivity, eye pain, loss of appetite, vomiting, brain swelling, seizures, and unconsciousness.
The causes of this illness are tick bites from these insects that are predominantly found in woodland habitats. They pick viruses up from the local animal population that they feed on and then transfer these viruses to humans through tick bites.
Risk factors are spending time in known tick environments such as in woodlands and grassy areas. Being in close contact with animals, such as goats, which may carry ticks is also a major risk factor, as are activities such as camping. Even gardening in areas where there is a large tick population can lead to tick bites which increase the risk of contracting viruses.
The climate is another risk factor, with ticks thriving in environments such as forests and grasslands during wet, humid summers and mild winters.
Diagnosis of this illness is through a physical examination for any tick bites, whether healing or infected. The presence of any of the symptoms mentioned, but more especially neurological symptoms such as headaches and brain swelling, can help identify it.
If tick-borne meningoencephalitis is suspected, then lab tests for specific IgM antibodies can be performed from a serum or cerebrospinal fluid sample.
There is no specific antiviral drug available. Therefore, treatment concentrates on the relief of symptoms instead and, in severe cases, the prevention of death. Anti-inflammatories can be used if brain inflammation is severe.
Prevention relies on knowing what environments ticks like and avoiding them if possible. If individuals do have to enter tick hotspots, then they should limit the amount of exposed skin on show by covering up.
Treating clothes with insect repellents can help keep ticks at bay, as can some natural insect repellents such as citronella and the essential oil of peppermint.
Checking clothing and washing clothes at high temperatures after ventures in tick-laden environments can prevent bites from unseen rogue insects. Having a hot shower after being out in woodland or grassy environments can also help prevent this from occurring.
Although not everyone gets seriously ill, the prevention of tick bites should still be the ultimate aim going forward.