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Lithuania Health Overview

Health

The only health risks associated with visiting Lithuania are for those intending to visit forested areas, who are advised to take the necessary precautions against tick-borne encephalitis. EU citizens are entitled to emergency medical treatment if they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their country of origin. Medical facilities are fair and there are plenty of doctors, but equipment and resources are lacking. There are a few private clinics of high standard. Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment for services. Travel medical insurance is highly recommended.


View information on diseases: , , Tick-borne encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis

Cause: The tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) virus, which is a flavivirus. Other closely related viruses cause similar diseases. Transmission: Infection is transmitted by the bite of infected ticks. There is no direct person-to-person transmission. Some related viruses, also tick-borne, infect animals such as birds, deer (louping-ill), rodents and sheep. Nature of the disease: Infection with tick-borne encephalitis may induce an influenza-like illness, with a second phase of fever occurring in 10% of cases. Encephalitis develops during the second phase and may result in paralysis, permanent sequelae or death. Severity of illness increases with age. Geographical distribution: Tick-borne encephalitis is present in large parts of Europe, particularly Austria, the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), the Czech Republic, Hungary and the Russian Federation. The disease is seasonal, occurring mainly during the summer months in rural and forest areas at altitudes up to 1,000 metres. Risk for travellers: In endemic areas during the summer months, travellers are at risk when hiking or camping in rural or forest areas. Prophylaxis (protective treatment): A vaccine against TBE is available. Precautions: Avoid bites by ticks by wearing long trousers and closed footwear when hiking or camping in endemic areas. If a bite occurs, the tick should be removed as soon as possible. Source: WHO.

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