Encephalitis in Dogs: New Rare Encephalitis Discovered in England 12th April 2023
- £7.14
- Effective medicine for fleas and ticks
- Suitable for cats and dogs
- Easy-to-use spray
- £20.87
What is encephalitis?
Encephalitis is an uncommon but serious condition in which the brain becomes inflamed (swollen). This inflammation can be caused by a number of different factors such as infections, autoimmune disorders and certain medications.
Has tick-borne encephalitis been discovered in England?
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is already common in many parts of Europe - it can cause viral infections of the central nervous system. Health officials have said tick-borne encephalitis is "likely" to be in the UK after the first case of the virus acquired domestically was confirmed in Yorkshire.
Where is tick-borne encephalitis likely to be found?
Three cases of probable or confirmed TBEV have occurred in England since 2019. The first confirmed case was in Yorkshire in 2022 - and then there was a probable one in Scotland also in 2022. The virus has also been detected near Hampshire/Dorset and Norfolk. It may also be present in other parts of England as the tick species carrying it is widespread in the UK.
What causes tick-borne encephalitis in dogs?
The tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is a virus carried by ticks that is transmitted by a bite. It belongs to a family of viruses called flaviviruses. The most common tick types that transmit the virus to dogs are Ixodes ricinus and Ixodes hexagonus.
How does tick-borne encephalitis in dogs spread?
Tick-borne encephalitis, caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus, is a rapidly emerging disease in Western, Central and Northern Europe, affecting dogs and people with potentially fatal consequences.
Ticks are small, spider-like creatures that feed on the blood of animals and people. They tend to be found in dense woodland or moorland and feed on deer. While feeding, they can transmit viruses and infections that cause disease. The most common disease passed on by ticks is Lyme disease which is a bacterial infection. A dog contracting tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is much less likely.
Can tick-borne encephalitis in dogs be contagious?
No, tick-borne encephalitis in dogs is not contagious. Instead, it is caused by:
Exposure to infected ticks
Alimentary transmission has been reported from the consumption of unpasteurized milk and milk products from livestock.
Are some dogs more prone to tick-borne encephalitis?
Yes, some dogs may be more susceptible to tick-borne encephalitis. Some factors that can contribute to how prone a dog is include:
Immune status of the dog
The amount of time spent exposed to ticks in endemic countries
Stress
Immunosuppression
Concurrent disease
What are the symptoms of encephalitis in dogs?
There are a number of different symptoms that you can keep your eye out for if you believe your dog is suffering from encephalitis. These include:
Fever
Apathy
Weakness
Anorexia
Some symptoms of potentially severe encephalitis include:
Neurological signs including convulsions
Blindness
Head pressing
How is tick-borne encephalitis in dogs diagnosed?
A possible diagnosis is based on clinical evidence and on the known risk of exposure to tick bites in virus-endemic regions. A rise in specific antibody titres in samples taken 2–3 weeks apart, or specific antibodies in the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) may confirm a diagnosis.
What is the prognosis for dogs with tick-borne encephalitis?
The prognosis of a dog with tick-borne encephalitis is very guarded to grave in dogs. The prognosis will depend on several factors including the promptness and effectiveness of treatment. Mild cases may resolve with appropriate treatments where as severe cases may cause long-term neurological damage or death.
How can I prevent tick-borne encephalitis in my dog?
At the time of writing, there are no vaccines or vaccination schedules available for dogs. The best way to prevent tick-borne encephalitis is to avoid exposure to potential disease carriers. You may wish to consider using a product which REPELS and KILLS ticks.
What are ticks?
Ticks are small, spider-like parasites that feed on the blood of animals and people.
What do ticks feed on?
Ticks will attach themselves to the skin of their host and will feed by piercing the skin and sucking blood. Ticks are opportunistic and will feed on whatever they can find.
How can you help your dog to avoid ticks?
The best way you can help your dog to avoid ticks is by using products that repel and kill ticks. With some products, ticks are killed through contact. This means that they don't need to bite your pet in order to be killed. Repellent action is clinically proven to help reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases.
How can you remove ticks from your dog safely?
Here are some tips you can follow to ensure you are safely removing ticks from your dog:
Remove them as soon as possible
Use a tick removal tool
Pull upwards slowly and firmly, as mouthparts left in the skin can cause infection
Clean the bite area with antibacterial wash/soap and water, and monitor it for several weeks for any changes
Which treatments are available for encephalitis in dogs at UK Pets?
Currently, when a dog is diagnosed with tick-borne encephalitis there is only symptomatic supportive treatment available. The best way to prevent encephalitis is to follow the steps listed above.
- £7.14
- Effective medicine for fleas and ticks
- Suitable for cats and dogs
- Easy-to-use spray
- £20.87
