Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Tick-borne encephalitis Vaccine

Tick-borne Encephalitis Vaccine 

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Tick-borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that affects the brain and central nervous system, and is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Ixodes tick. The disease is endemic in certain parts of central, northern, and eastern Europe, as well as in Siberia and some regions of Asia, including parts of China and Japan. The risk of transmission is highest during the spring and summer months, when ticks are most active. Most infections occur in people engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or forestry work in rural or forested areas where infected ticks are commonly found. While many cases are mild or asymptomatic, TBE can lead to serious complications including meningitis, encephalitis, and long-term neurological problems. Vaccination is strongly recommended for travellers spending extended periods in high-risk areas, particularly if their itinerary includes time in nature or rural environments.

Vaccination Pricing

£68 Per dose
£136 Per Course of 2

Signs & Symptoms

  • Mild flu-like illness

  • Serious infections affect the brain and spinal cord

  • Untreated leads to long term neurological complications

  • 20% fatality rate in Asia

Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

231 Worcester Road, Malvern, WR14 1SU

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

worcesterravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

153 Ombersley Road, Worcester, WR3 7BX

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
2-15 2 to 3 (paed) 0, 1-3 months
or
0, 14 days**		 Last dose 2 weeks before* 5 – 12 months
16 – 85 2 to 3 0, 1-3 months
or
0, 14 days**		 Last dose 2 weeks before* 5 – 12months

*The vaccine is at its most effective the more time it is given to become active. If you get the vaccine up to a day before you go abroad, some immunity will be provided.
**accelerated schedule.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that affects the central nervous system and can lead to serious complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, or spinal cord inflammation. It is caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), a member of the flavivirus family. The illness is endemic in many parts of central, eastern, and northern Europe, as well as parts of Asia, and is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. In rare cases, the virus can also be contracted by consuming unpasteurised dairy products from infected animals. While many infections are mild or asymptomatic, severe cases can result in long-term neurological damage or even death. As there is no specific treatment once the disease develops, prevention through vaccination and tick avoidance is key.

TBE is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Ixodes tick, commonly found in forested or grassy areas, especially during the spring and summer months when ticks are most active. In a small number of cases, infection can also occur through the consumption of unpasteurised milk or dairy products from infected goats, sheep, or cows. Prevention starts with reducing exposure to ticks by wearing long sleeves and trousers, tucking trousers into socks, using tick repellents containing DEET, and checking the body thoroughly for ticks after spending time outdoors. Ticks should be removed promptly with fine-tipped tweezers to reduce the risk of infection. Vaccination is the most effective form of prevention for those at risk, particularly for people spending extended time outdoors in rural or wooded areas in endemic regions.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis usually has an incubation period of 7 to 14 days after a tick bite. In most symptomatic cases, the illness progresses in two phases. The first phase resembles a mild flu-like illness, with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches, which usually resolve within a few days. After a short symptom-free period, some individuals go on to develop the second, more serious phase, where the virus affects the central nervous system. This can lead to meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain itself), or meningoencephalitis (a combination of both). Symptoms at this stage may include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, sensitivity to light, and in some cases, seizures or paralysis. While many people recover fully, others may suffer long-term neurological issues such as memory problems, speech difficulties, or balance and coordination issues. The fatality rate is low but not negligible, particularly in older adults.

The TBE vaccine provides effective protection and is typically administered as a three-dose schedule. The first two doses are given one to three months apart, and the third dose is administered 5 to 12 months after the second, offering long-term protection. After the full course, protection usually lasts for at least three years. For continued protection, booster doses are recommended every three to five years, depending on age and risk of ongoing exposure. For those travelling on short notice, an accelerated schedule is available, with the first two doses given within two weeks to provide quicker immunity. As with all vaccines, it is best to plan well in advance of travel and consult a healthcare provider about the appropriate schedule.

The TBE vaccine is recommended for people travelling to areas where the virus is endemic, particularly for those who will be engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or forestry work in rural or forested regions. High-risk countries include Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania), Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, parts of Russia, and some areas of China and Japan. The risk is highest between April and November, when ticks are most active. Even short visits may warrant vaccination if the traveller will be spending significant time in high-risk areas, particularly in spring and summer. Urban centres typically pose little or no risk.

The TBE vaccine is generally very safe and well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild and short-lived, such as redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site. Some people may experience a mild fever, headache, or fatigue in the days following the injection. These symptoms typically resolve on their own. Serious side effects are very rare, but as with all vaccines, there is a minimal risk of allergic reaction. The vaccine is licensed for adults and children over one year of age, and younger children or individuals with certain health conditions may require tailored advice. Overall, the benefits of vaccination in preventing a potentially serious and long-lasting illness far outweigh the minor risk of side effects, especially for those at risk due to outdoor exposure in endemic areas.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

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