RISK FACTORS OF TICK-BORNE ENCEPHALITIS IN SELECTED POPULATIONS IN EASTERN SLOVAKIA

Tick-borne encephalitis is a severe acute viral disease of the central nervous system that can lead to death or to long-term neurological sequels. The aim of our work was to highlight the current problems and risk factors of tick-borne encephalitis, the diagnostic options, seroprevalence rate and the recommended precautions. Methods: The study included 550 serum samples from persons occupationally exposed and patients of neurological and skin department. For the quantitative determination was used detection of IgG and IgM antibodies in serum. Participant of the study also filled questionnaires about possible risk factors for tick borne disease and basic socio-economic characteristics. Tick-borne encephalitis serum positivity was confirmed with a commercial ELISA test. Results: From total amount of investigated persons 161 respondents were vaccinated against encephalitis, of whom 136 were detected with the presence of antibodies (means that antibodies against vaccination were present in 84.4% vaccinated persons). Despite vaccination, antibodies were not detected in 25 vaccinated participants. In the non-vaccinated group (n = 389) only 19 respondents (4.8%) were detected with antibodies. As a risk factors were confirmed contact with ticks and frequent outdoor activities (16 persons), drinking of raw milk (5 persons). In 2 seropositive persons with the presence of antibodies, we didn't confirm any risk factors (no tick contact, no drinking of raw milk or other suspected activity). The antibodies were detected more frequently in males (n = 13) compared to females (n = 6), and also antibodies more commonly in people from the countryside (n = 16) to the town citizens (n = 3). Conclusion: Various preventive measures consist of individual protection, possible avoiding to preventable risk factors, personal protection during outside activities and the most effective way is vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis.