Low TBE vaccination rates among at-risk outdoor workers in Sweden

Farmers and forest workers in Sweden have alarmingly low vaccination rates against tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), according to the first national survey of its kind. The study, conducted by Umeå University and the Swedish National Veterinary Institute (SVA), surveyed over 1,000 individuals in various outdoor professions.

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When people haven't experienced the disease themselves, they think the risk is low

Results showed that 37% of farmers and 32% of forest workers had not been vaccinated against TBE. Researchers attribute this to a perceived low risk, lack of access to vaccination services in rural areas, and insufficient employer support. "When people haven't experienced the disease themselves, they think the risk is low," said researcher Junwen Guo.

Many outdoor workers reported that vaccination clinics do not visit rural areas often enough, and they need to travel to towns for appointments. The study also highlighted that only about 35% of participants said their employer covered the cost of the vaccine, a figure Guo believes is even lower in reality, as many respondents were self-employed.

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In that case, one ends up in the hospital for a long time, and many also get residual symptoms that cause problems for a long time, often lifelong

While TBE often causes mild or no symptoms, it can lead to severe neurological issues, including brain inflammation, requiring long hospital stays and potentially causing lifelong residual symptoms. The Public Health Agency of Sweden does not issue specific recommendations for occupational groups but advises vaccination for anyone at risk of tick exposure in endemic areas. Experts emphasize the need for better information and employer involvement to protect these vulnerable workers.

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A person who risks getting ticks is recommended to get vaccinated. If you have employees who are exposed to ticks in risk areas, it is not at all wrong as an employer to consider arranging vaccination for them