In September 2019, we were approached by Ralph, a Norwegian geologist who frequently works outdoors in mountainous and forested regions. In July, he was bitten by a tick on his neck. Initially reassured by the absence of erythema characteristic of Lyme disease, he did not seek immediate medical attention. However, about twenty days post-bite, Ralph experienced severe weakness, recurring headaches, occipital pain, and swelling of the lymph nodes in his neck and occipital area.

Based on his symptoms and medical history, we diagnosed Ralph with tick-borne viral encephalitis.

Following a planned treatment regimen, Ralph returned to Norway after four weeks in satisfactory condition, though he still experienced slight weakness.

Overview of Tick-Borne Viral Encephalitis

This disease is prevalent in endemic areas where ticks reside. The Flavivirus is transmitted through tick bites and can also be contracted from consuming unpasteurized animal products like milk or cottage cheese from infected animals.

Geographic Distribution and Seasonality

In Russia, tick-borne viral encephalitis is found from Vladivostok to Belarus and typically occurs during warm seasons when ticks are active.

Pathogenesis and Symptoms

Following a tick bite, the virus impacts the central and peripheral nervous systems. The incubation period is 7-21 days post-bite and 4-7 days after consuming infected food. Symptoms manifest in two phases:

First Phase (2-4 days): Fever, malaise, muscle pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, followed by an eight-day remission.

Second Phase (30% of cases): Central nervous system involvement, characterized by a high fever (38-39°C), severe headaches, insomnia, and nervous system damage within 3-5 days.

The virus can be detected in blood and cerebrospinal fluid, posing significant risks, including disability and death.

Treatment Protocol

Early treatment is crucial. If treatment begins within the first months, outcomes are more favorable. Delayed treatment may extend from several months to years, necessitating rehabilitation.

Our comprehensive treatment approach includes:

• Intravenous ozone therapy
• Ten-pass therapy (intravenous vacuum ozone therapy with blood filtration)
• Intravenous laser therapy with ultraviolet sensitivity
• Muscle irradiation using specialized ultraviolet devices
• Adjunctive Therapies
• Magnetotherapy to address nervous system damage.
• Hydrocolonotherapy for detoxification, incorporating probiotics and oxygen.
• Ozone sauna to cleanse the skin of toxins.
• Immune System and Motor Function Rehabilitation

Motor function restoration is conducted in our rehabilitation department, employing:

Electronic gait restoration devices for leg muscle synchronization.

Our dedicated physiotherapists, under the guidance of Dr. Nikoletta Nikolenko, assess and manage recovery using a proprietary system.

Outcome

Upon discharge, patients undergo testing to confirm the absence of the virus in the blood, ensuring complete recovery.

Stay healthy.