Tick-borne encephalitis in France

17 Jul 2023

Public health authorities in France have recorded 71 cases of tick-borne encephalitis between May 2021 and May 2023. Of these cases, 61 became infected in France and 10 were infected in other countries. No deaths have been reported, although most were admitted to hospital.

Cases were reported from the following Departments: Haute-Savoie (14), Haut-Rhin (11), Bas-Rhin (10), Rhône (4), Loire (3), Ain (2), Ardèche (2), Cantal (2), Doubs (2) Puy de Dome (2), Vosges (2), Isère (1), Meurthe et Moselle (1), Marne (1), Moselle (1), Haute Saône (1),Savoie (1) Meurthe-et-Moselle or Vosges (1)

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is an infection spread mainly through tick bites. Infection can also occur through consumption of unpasteurised dairy products. TBE can cause a flu-like illness or lead to more severe symptoms such as meningitis or brain inflammation.. 

Advice for Travellers

If you are planning to spend long periods of time outdoors in forests or rural areas of countries where TBE infection is common, you should be aware of how to avoid tick bites.

The most effective way to prevent infection is by having the TBE vaccine, particularly if you are planning to do outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, camping, cycling, fishing orienteering or running in rural or forested areas.

When travelling in high risk areas, you should inspect your whole body daily for ticks, particularly after outdoor activities. Ticks should be removed as early as possible. Avoid consuming unpasteurised dairy products 

• see the insect bite avoidance page for advice on how to safely remove ticks

For further information see Tick-borne Encephalitis page