The Urwin Pharmacy Group

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Travel Vaccine

What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis?

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that can cause serious neurological issues. The TBE vaccine is available for travellers who plan on visiting areas whose planned activities put them at an increased risk of the viral infection. Tick-borne encephalitis is rarely fatal in Europe. However in Asia, it may be fatal in up to 20 percent of cases and long-term neurological problems are common.

Tick-borne encephalitis is spread through tick bites and can cause a flu-like illness, fever and headache or lead to meningitis and/or brain inflammation. Symptoms of tick-borne encephalitis usually occur two weeks after a tick bite. Some infections can remain asymptomatic but common symptoms of tick-borne encephalitis include fatigue, headache and muscle pain.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

The tick-borne encephalitis vaccination involves three injections of vaccine. The second dose will be given 1 to 3 months after the initial dose and the third dose is given 5-12 months after the second. Once you have completed the course the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine will protect you for three years. Travellers should have booster doses every three years if you continue to be at risk of infection.
You need two doses to be protected and you need to have received the second dose two weeks before travel. You should get the first dose at least two months before travel.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Prevention

Tick-borne encephalitis can be prevented when the correct precautions are taken to reduce the risk of being bitten, particularly when you’re in high risk areas.

Travellers should wear trousers and long sleeve tops, tuck your trousers into your socks. Check your skin for regularly for ticks, especially your hair line, behind ears, elbows, back of knees, groin and armpits.