Chapter 7: TBE in special situations

Abstract

TBE often takes a severe clinical course in immuno-suppressed patients. In transplant patients TBE usually takes a fatal course. TBE vaccination in immuno-suppressed patients can be non-effective. TBE in pregnancy has rarely been reported; from recent cases there is no evidence of transplacental infection of the offspring. The alimentary route of infection of TBE is still common in some European countries resulting in a high clinical manifestation index. TBEV can be infectious in milk and milk products for up to 14 days under optimal environmental conditions. TBE is an important travel-related disease. Increasing numbers of non-endemic countries report imported cases. Imported TBE cases in non-endemic areas pose challenges regarding the diagnosis of TBE.