Ocias et al.
Transnational exchange of surveillance data reveals previously unrecognized TBEV microfocus.
Eur. J. Public Health 2019, 29: 631-633
In Denmark, there are usually 1 to 5 TBE cases reported annually. Most infections occur on the Danish island of Bornholm or the cases are imported from Sweden. Exchange of surveillance data between these two countries can help to identify new TBE virus risk areas (EU Interreg project ScandTick Innovation).
In Denmark, TBE virus infections are monitored at Statens Serum Insitut (SSI). From 2010 to 2015, 73 sera have been identified which were IgM positive for TBE virus, and a total of 31 patients were identified who had IgM and IgG antibodies. 14 patients had travelled to Sweden and four of them could be reached and were interviewed. While three of the four patients were assessed to have been infected in already known risk areas in Sweden, the fourth patient had become infected in a so far TBE non-risk area – south of Gunnerud in Värmland.
This example indicates that transnational collaborations can identify new TBE microfoci and could further improve the surveillance of TBE infection.
The identification of new TBE risk areas is important for the issuing of vaccination recommendations to the general public.