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Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in dogs
Michael W Leschnik1, Georges C Kirtz, Johann G Thalhammer
1Small animal clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria. michael.leschnik@vu.wien.ac.at
International Journal of Medical Microbiology : IJMM
|July 27, 2002
Summary
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is an increasing viral disease in dogs transmitted by ticks. Clinical signs range from mild to lethal, with seasonal patterns and expanding geographic spread observed.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Arthropod-borne Viruses
Background:
- Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a Flavivirus infection transmitted by ticks, recognized in dogs for three decades.
- The incidence of TBE cases in dogs is rising, indicating a growing concern in veterinary medicine.
- TBE presents with neurological symptoms including fever, and affects cerebrocortical, thalamic, and brainstem functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in dogs.
- To highlight the increasing prevalence and geographic expansion of TBE in canine populations.
- To describe the clinical manifestations and disease courses of TBE in dogs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of TBE in dogs.
- Analysis of epidemiological trends and clinical presentations.
- Discussion of disease seasonality and transmission dynamics.
Main Results:
- TBE infections in dogs can manifest in peracute/lethal, subacute, or chronic forms.
- Not all infected dogs exhibit clinical signs, suggesting subclinical infections are possible.
- TBE exhibits seasonality linked to tick activity and is expanding into new European regions.
Conclusions:
- TBE poses a significant and growing threat to canine health in endemic and expanding areas.
- Understanding TBE's clinical spectrum and transmission is crucial for veterinary diagnosis and control.
- The seasonal nature and spread of TBE highlight the need for ongoing surveillance and preventative strategies in dogs.