[Tick-Borne Encephalitis - Viral Transmission and Considerations for Vaccination]

Abstract

Tick-Borne Encephalitis - Viral Transmission and Considerations for Vaccination Abstract. Tick-Borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is a flavivirus transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected Ixodes ticks. Infection with TBEV results in Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE), an acute disease of the Central Nervous System (CNS) that can lead to significant long-term sequalae. Over the last decades the geographic range of TBEV and the incidence of TBE have substantially increased. TBEV is now endemic through much of Central Europe, including parts of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, and is recognized as an increasing public health problem. While there are no specific therapies for TBE, two vaccines are licensed and available in Europe, Encepur^® and FSME-Immun^®. Both are considered safe and effective. Following vaccination, the generation of virus-neutralizing antibodies is often considered an indicator of protection against disease. While recent evidence suggests that cell-mediated immune responses likely also play important roles in protection, cell-mediated immunity following infection and vaccination remains poorly characterized. As with many vaccines, the initial response to TBE vaccination is influenced by several factors. Here, we review how age, immunosuppression, adherence to recommended vaccination schedules, and the use of single vaccine type during priming may impact immunity following TBE vaccination. We further discuss vaccination coverage and disease prevention, as well as factors impacting individual vaccine uptake.