Reliable surveillance of tick-borne encephalitis in European countries is necessary to improve the quality of vaccine recommendations

In July-November 2009, 26 European Union (EU) Member States (MSs), Norway and Iceland, participated in a survey seeking information on national tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccination recommendations. Information on TBE surveillance, methods used to ascertain endemic areas, vaccination recommendations, vaccine coverage and methods of monitoring of vaccine coverage were obtained. Sixteen countries (57%) reported presence of TBE endemic areas on their territory. Vaccination against TBE was recommended for the general population in 8 (28%) countries, for occupational risk groups - in 13 (46%) countries, and for tourists going abroad - in 22 (78%) countries. Although vaccination recommendations for country residents, and for tourists always referred to endemic areas, there was no uniform, standardized method used to define endemic areas. For this reason, clear recommendations for tourists need to be developed, and standardized surveillance directed to efficient assessment of TBE risk need to be implemented in European countries. (R.A.)

Author(s): Stefanoff P, Polkowska A, Giambi C, Levy Bruhl D, O Flanagan D, Dematte L, Lopalco PL, Mereckiene J, Johansen K, D'Ancona F

Publishing year: 2011

Pages: 1283-8

In relation to

Our latest news

news

Sexual Health Week 2026: Screening and Prevention Remain Essential

news

10 years of commitment and action in the service of public health

news

Call for Applications for the Renewal of the Editorial Board of the Weekly...