I don't see much point in re-writing a release that basically tells you what you need to know, which is that if you're involved in outdoor pursuits, you're more likely to contract Tick Borne Encephalitis (TBE), so I haven't. Check out the map above to see where TBE is an issue if you're heading off walking or climbing abroad this year. The full release:
80% OF TBE CASES FROM WALKING AND OUTDOOR PURSUITS
Eight out of 10 cases of Tick Borne Encephalitis (TBE), a disease affecting the central nervous system, are contracted by people enjoying outdoor pursuits, scientists say.
Researchers conducting a 20-year study in Switzerland found the majority of patients mentioned walking and other recreational leisure and sports as a “frequent” activity in TBE endemic areas.
TBE causes an average of 13,000 cases needing hospital treatment in Europe and Russia every year. Up to 30% of patients suffer meningitis and in extreme cases it leads to encephalitis (brain swelling) and inflammation of the spinal cord. Two in every hundred people die from the disease.
Even after recovery, long term health problems can include loss of concentration, memory, headaches and tiredness.
The website Tickalert.org - www.tickalert.org - has updated its information with more detailed maps of 27 TBE endemic countries in Europeand profiles of risk areas for a range of outdoor sports and activities such as hiking, climbing, camping, cycling, mountain biking and horse riding.
Its TBE Travel Check online tool also helps travellers to find out if they might at risk of the disease because of where they are going and outdoor activities planned.
