TBE is an infection of the central nervous system that affects the brain, spinal cord and membranes around them.¹ For most people infected with the TBE virus, there are no symptoms. But if there are, they usually appear in two phases.¹ 

First Stage TBE Symptoms

In the first phase, people have flu-like symptoms including muscle pain, headache, fatigue and a peak temperature between 37.5ºC and 39ºC for 2 to 7 days.¹ Then, there is a period of 2 to 10 days with no symptoms or mild symptoms, which is followed by the second phase.¹

Second Stage TBE Symptoms

With some people, the second phase can be serious. The second phase targets the brain, presenting as meningitis and/or encephalitis.² These symptoms may include a higher fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and vertigo.¹

In severe cases, permanent paralysis can occur and, in very rare cases, people may die.³

Long-term consequences of TBE

The long-term consequences of TBE can be serious. Although most people with TBE recover fully, some patients infected with TBE will suffer severe complications with their brain, nerves and spinal cord.⁴

Long-term complications associated with TBE can include:²

If you have been bitten by a tick or visited a TBE risk area in the past month and experience symptoms of TBE, feel unwell or the bite area does not start to heal after a couple days, contact your GP or call NHS 111. If you experience more severe symptoms, such as loss of movement in part of your body, call 999 or go to A&E.⁵