Russia updates tick-borne encephalitis guidelines for children's safety

Russia’s Health Ministry has released updated guidelines for preventing tick-borne encephalitis in children. The new recommendations focus on vaccination, emergency treatments, and modern antiviral drugs. These changes aim to simplify protection and reduce reliance on injections for young patients.

The revised guidelines introduce oral antiviral drugs, such as interferon alpha-2b and immunostimulants, as alternatives to injections. Children can now take these pills after visiting wooded areas or immediately following a tick bite. Unlike traditional treatments, these medications do not require special storage.

Previously, immunoglobulin injections were routinely used for emergency prevention. Under the new rules, they will only be administered if a tick-borne virus is confirmed and within 72 hours of the bite. Recent studies have raised doubts about the effectiveness of immunoglobulin for preventing the disease. Vaccination remains the most reliable form of protection. The ministry strongly advises routine immunisation for all residents in endemic regions, including most districts of Khabarovsk Territory. The updated guidelines also reinforce general preventive measures to reduce tick exposure.

The changes simplify emergency care for children by offering pill-based treatments instead of injections. Doctors will now prescribe immunoglobulin only in confirmed cases and within a strict timeframe. Vaccination and preventive steps continue to be the primary defence against tick-borne encephalitis.