Sweden is experiencing a record number of TBE (Tick-borne encephalitis) infections, with 269 cases reported by mid-August 2024. The warmer climate, extending the tick season, is a contributing factor. TBE can lead to severe health issues, including paralysis and death. Vaccination and regular tick checks are advised for prevention.
Record Number of TBE Infections in Sweden: A Serious Concern
Record Number of TBE Infections in Sweden: A Serious Concern
A record number of people have been infected with TBE this year. As of August 18, 269 Swedes have contracted the disease.
Throughout 2024, a total of 384 Swedes were infected with TBE (Tick-borne encephalitis), also known as tick-borne brain inflammation.
Already halfway through August this year, the Public Health Agency has registered 269 cases of this potentially very dangerous disease.
– It is a higher level than in recent years, says Caroline Schönning, an investigator at the Public Health Agency, to TT.
Climate as a Factor
Why more Swedes are getting infected with TBE is difficult to answer, according to Schönning. One reason could be the climate. Ticks have a longer season when it is warmer for a larger part of the year compared to before, and at the same time, warmer summers mean more people spend time outdoors.
– Many factors are interacting, says Schönning.
– A portion of those infected with TBE show hardly any symptoms at all, and we know very little about these individuals. But it can become very serious where one first becomes ill, then recovers, and then becomes ill again. It is a very serious disease that can affect the nervous system.
Common symptoms of TBE include fever, severe headache, vomiting, light sensitivity, neck stiffness, and concentration problems. If the virus reaches the brain, it can affect the central nervous system and cause paralysis, personality changes – and in severe cases, lead to death. Every year, about ten people in Sweden die from TBE, according to the National Board of Health and Welfare's cause of death register.
"Remove Them"
There is a vaccine against TBE, and besides that, it is mainly about checking the body to avoid the disease.
– If you have been out in nature and have not worn long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, it is very important to check that you do not have ticks on you. If you do, you should remove them as soon as possible, whether they are crawling around or attached. There is really not much more you can do, says Caroline Schönning.