Epidemic encephalitis: understanding, symptoms and treatment
Epidemic encephalitis, also known as epidemic viral encephalitis or simply epidemic encephalitis, is a serious inflammatory disease of the brain that can have significant consequences for a person's health. In this article we will look at the main aspects of this disease, including its causes, symptoms and treatments.
Epidemic encephalitis is caused by a virus known as tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). This virus is transmitted through tick bites, which are the vector of infection. Ticks living in forested and suburban areas are the main source of infection for humans. The virus can enter the body through the skin at the site of the bite and then spread through the blood to the brain, causing inflammation.
Symptoms of epidemic encephalitis can range from mild to severe and may include headache, fever, dizziness, muscle pain, drowsiness, disturbances of consciousness, seizures and vomiting. Some patients may also experience neurological complications such as paralysis and incoordination. It is important to note that not all infected people show symptoms, and in some cases the disease may be asymptomatic.
The diagnosis of epidemic encephalitis is based on clinical manifestations, studies of cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding the brain) and specific laboratory tests to detect antibodies to the virus. Early diagnosis plays an important role in the successful treatment of this disease.
There is no specific antiviral drug for epidemic encephalitis. Treatment is aimed at symptomatic support and alleviation of the manifestations of the disease. Patients with severe forms of the disease may require hospitalization for observation and treatment in an inpatient setting. Prevention plays an important role in preventing the disease and includes the use of a vaccine against tick-borne encephalitis and precautions when visiting areas where ticks are common.
In conclusion, epidemic encephalitis poses a serious threat to human health. Early diagnosis and timely treatment play an important role in overcoming this disease. It is important to take precautions when visiting forested and suburban areas where ticks are common, and consult a doctor if suspicious symptoms appear. Continued education of the public about risks and prevention methods is also important to reduce the spread of epidemic encephalitis.
However, despite the seriousness of epidemic encephalitis, it is important to remember that it is a rare disease and taking appropriate precautions will help reduce the risk of infection. Contact your local health authority or doctor for more detailed information about prevention and treatment measures.
Источники:
- World Health Organization. Tick-borne encephalitis. URL: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tick-borne-encephalitis ↗
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tick-borne encephalitis. URL: https://www.cdc.gov/tickborneencephalitis/index.html ↗