Friday, April 7, 2023

Tick-borne encephalitis virus is spreading in the UK

 Three cases of tick-borne encephalitis virus have been identified in the UK. According to British experts, after research, it turned out that the causative agent of the deadly disease has spread widely throughout the country for the first time.

The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) said three cases of tick-borne encephalitis have been detected in patients in Yorkshire, Norfolk and the Hampshire-Dorset border. Further tests showed that the disease, which was usually only found in parts of Europe and Asia, has now spread widely in the UK. In addition, experts consider it unlikely that she will disappear from the country.

Although the risk to the general public is very low, it is important that people take precautions to protect themselves from tick bites. For example, covering ankles and feet, using insect repellent, and checking clothes and body for ticks, especially when visiting areas with tall grass such as woods, heathland and parks.

It is believed that infected ticks may have entered the UK with migratory birds. Scientists suspected the virus entered the country in 2019, but could not fully confirm cases due to testing difficulties. At the same time, scientists point out the possibility of vaccinating people working outside in areas where the virus has been detected. However, this is not required for the general public.

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