what is tbe

TBE stands for tick-borne encephalitis, which is a viral infectious disease that involves the central nervous system and occurs in many parts of Europe and Asia. The virus spreads to people through the bite of an infected tick or by eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy products from infected goats, sheep, or cows. Most people infected with TBE do not feel sick, but when symptoms occur, they may include fever, aches, loss of appetite, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Some people develop swelling of the brain and/or spinal cord, confusion, and sensory disturbances. Tick-borne encephalitis can sometimes cause death. TBE virus can be found in parts of the region stretching from western and northern Europe through northern and eastern Asia, and people who travel to these areas might be at risk for infection. TBE is not found in the United States.