Tick-Borne Encephalitis Surge in North Kazakhstan: Early Season and Increased Cases

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Cases Rise in North Kazakhstan PETROPAVLOVSK, Kazakhstan—Five cases of tick-borne encephalitis have been reported in the North Kazakhstan region (SKO), marking an earlier-than-usual start to the epidemiological season. Gulnida Dzhakeeva, a leading specialist at the SKO Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control, attributes this to the unusually warm weather. "In the current year, five cases of tick-borne encephalitis have been registered during the epidemiological season," she stated in an interview. The early onset of the tick season has resulted in a significant increase in tick bites. According to Dzhakeeva, 408 tick bites have been recorded since the beginning of the season, a threefold increase compared to the same period last year. She emphasized the importance of taking precautions and seeking medical attention if bitten. "If you find a tick on yourself, remove it, place it in an airtight container, and take it to a laboratory for testing," she advised. The SKO health authorities are conducting preventative measures, particularly in Aiyrtusky district, known as an endemic area for tick-borne encephalitis. Annual anti-tick treatments are carried out there in April and September. Tick-borne encephalitis can have severe consequences, ranging from disability to death. The timely removal of ticks and subsequent medical attention are crucial in preventing serious complications.