New transmission route confirmed: TBE also possible via cheese

The TBE virus, known as the cause of tick-borne encephalitis, has now also been detected in raw milk products. In France, the health authority ANSES officially confirmed for the first time that transmission to humans is possible without a tick bite—for example, through the consumption of goat or cow cheese made from raw milk.

An incident in 2020 in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region had raised suspicions: At that time, several people became ill after consuming local raw milk products. Now, this previously underestimated route of infection has been officially recognized.

Particularly worrying: The TBE virus continues to spread geographically. In addition to new risk areas in France, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) is also reporting an expansion in Switzerland – the entire country, except for Ticino, is now considered a risk area.

The Anses is now calling for targeted measures:

• Stricter control of farm animals : The virus should be monitored directly in animal husbandry.
• Pasteurization recommended : Raw milk should be heated before consumption.
• Tick ​​protection remains important : Clothing and protective equipment remain essential in risk areas.
• Fences for animals : Goats and cows should also be protected from ticks.

Although TBE is rare, it can have serious consequences: The infection can lead to meningitis and encephalitis. According to expert Elsa Quillery, 20 to 40 percent of symptomatic patients experience long-term neurological damage.

A common misconception: TBE is not the same as Lyme borreliosis. The latter is bacterial and treatable, while TBE is caused by a virus for which there is no treatment. Only a vaccination provides reliable protection.