TBE cases in Saxony-Anhalt: Number remains stable despite the risk area!

TBE cases in Saxony-Anhalt: Number remains stable despite the risk area!

In Saxony-Anhalt, the fear of early summer meningoencephalitis (TBE) remains at a low level! Despite the designation of a new risk area in the Anhalt-Bitterfeld district, the State Office for Consumer Protection in Halle only reported three TBE cases by the end of October. Compared to the previous year, when five cases were registered, there is a gratifying decline. In total there were only six infections in the past year - TBE remains a rare threat in the region!

The TBE is transmitted by viruses that can get into the human body through tick bites. This insidious disease can lead to dangerous inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. It is alarming that there was not sufficient vaccination protection in 99 percent of those affected. The vaccination rates in the risk areas are terrifyingly low, and the responsible state office could not give any precise figures for Saxony-Anhalt. Nationwide, the vaccination rate in 2020 was only 19 percent - a worrying value!

ticks and their dangers

But not only TBE is a risk! Ticks also transmit the Lyme Borreliosis, which also has no major changes in Saxony-Anhalt compared to the previous year. 838 Borreliosis cases were reported by the end of October, and 825 in the previous year. A total of 931 cases were registered last year. Borreliosis is widespread throughout Germany, but there is no nationwide reporting obligation, which also complicated the Situation.

The constant vaccination commission (STIKO) strongly recommends a TBE vaccination for everyone who lives in risk areas or could be there and have contact there. It remains to be seen whether the people in Saxony-Anhalt take the warnings seriously and be vaccinated to protect themselves from these dangerous diseases!