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 introduce modern antiviral treatments and adjust the use of immunoglobulin injections for emergency care. The revised rules now allow doctors to prescribe antiviral pills that do not require special storage. These medications, including interferon alpha-2b and immunostimulants, can be taken after outdoor activities or immediately following a tick bite. This change aims to reduce the need for injections in children.

Vaccination remains the most reliable form of protection against the disease. Health officials continue to recommend routine immunisation for all residents in high-risk areas, such as most districts of Khabarovsk Territory. The guidelines also stress the importance of preventive measures alongside emergency treatment.

Immunoglobulin injections, once a standard emergency treatment, are now limited to confirmed cases of tick-borne virus infection within 72 hours of a bite. Their effectiveness has been questioned, leading to reduced reliance on this method. For children, immunoglobulin is no longer the primary emergency option. The updated guidelines shift focus toward modern antiviral pills and maintain strong recommendations for vaccination. Emergency immunoglobulin use is now restricted to specific cases, reflecting changes in medical evidence. These adjustments aim to simplify treatment while keeping prevention a top priority.