Health officials report an unusual surge in tick-borne encephalitis cases across southeastern Finland. Eleven infections have been confirmed in the Kymenlaakso region this year, with one elderly patient dying from the disease.
All patients diagnosed with tick-borne encephalitis required hospital care. Six cases originated in Kotka, four in Hamina, and one in Kouvola. Most infections occurred on the mainland, with only one case from the archipelago involving an unvaccinated person.
Infection specialist Anneli Harjunpää said vaccinations have significantly reduced cases in archipelago areas. The virus appears to have spread substantially to mainland ticks, and tick populations may be growing.
The deceased patient had underlying health conditions and received intensive care before passing away. Patients ranged from 15 to 80 years old.
Common symptoms include fever and severe, persistent headaches. Mild cases often go undiagnosed as people don't seek emergency care.
Tick checks provide limited protection against encephalitis. The virus transfers too quickly from ticks to humans, Harjunpää explained. Tick removal helps prevent Lyme disease, which requires more time to transmit.
Vaccination plays a crucial role in prevention. The full three-dose series prevents over 90% of tick-borne encephalitis cases.
Elderly people face higher risks of severe illness. They can experience breakthrough infections despite vaccination and should receive booster shots every three years. Vaccination also helps prevent long-term neurological effects like memory and concentration problems.
Finland's health institute monitors disease occurrence and designates areas for free vaccinations. With current budget constraints, Harjunpää recommends people in Kymenlaakso and coastal wetland areas not wait for free vaccines but start their vaccination series well before next year.
The situation reflects how climate change and environmental factors are expanding tick habitats and disease risks across Nordic regions.