Tick in the Lab (IMAGE) Umea University Caption Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infectious disease caused by TBE virus and is transmitted by the bite of an infected tick to humans. TBE can lead to serious brain damages with long-lasting symptoms. Credit Elin Berge Usage Restrictions This photo may only be used in contexts related to this news release. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.