Tick-borne Encephalitis
Tick-borne encephalitis risk in Europe and Asia, tick bite prevention, and the TBE vaccination course.
What is tick-borne encephalitis?
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system. It is spread primarily through the bite of infected ticks and, in rare cases, by consuming unpasteurised milk or dairy products from infected animals. While many infections are mild, some can lead to serious neurological complications.
Where is tick-borne encephalitis found?
Tick-borne encephalitis is found in parts of:
- Central and Eastern Europe
- Scandinavia
- The Baltic States
- Russia
- Northern and Central Asia
How is tick-borne encephalitis spread?
Tick-borne encephalitis is spread through:
- The bite of an infected tick.
- Rarely, by consuming unpasteurised milk or dairy products from infected goats, sheep, or cows.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop 7 to 14 days after a tick bite. They may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
In some cases, the infection can progress to affect the brain and nervous system, causing severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, difficulty with balance or coordination, and seizures.
Prevention
The risk of tick-borne encephalitis can be reduced by:
- Wearing long sleeves and long trousers in wooded or grassy areas.
- Using insect repellent on exposed skin.
- Treating clothing with insect repellent where appropriate.
- Checking your body for ticks after spending time outdoors.
- Removing ticks promptly using fine-tipped tweezers.
- Avoiding unpasteurised milk and dairy products in affected regions.
Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine
A vaccine is available in the UK to help protect against tick-borne encephalitis. It may be recommended for travellers visiting areas where the disease is present, particularly those planning outdoor activities or spending time in rural or forested regions.
How is the vaccine given?
- The vaccine is given as an injection into the upper arm.
- The standard primary course consists of 3 doses.
- An accelerated schedule may be available for travellers who require protection before departure.
During your travel health consultation, our pharmacist will advise you on the most appropriate vaccination schedule based on your travel plans.
Who can receive the vaccine?
The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is suitable for adults and children aged 1 year and over. During your travel health consultation, our pharmacist will assess your destination, itinerary, planned activities, and individual risk factors to determine whether the vaccine is appropriate for you.
Who should consider vaccination?
Vaccination may be appropriate for travellers who:
- Are travelling to countries where tick-borne encephalitis is present.
- Plan to hike, camp, cycle, or take part in other outdoor activities.
- Will be spending time in forests, grasslands, or rural areas.
- Are travelling during the tick season.
- Will be staying in endemic areas for extended periods.
A travel health consultation can help determine whether the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is appropriate for your trip.
When to seek medical attention
Seek medical advice if you develop:
- Fever or flu-like symptoms after a tick bite.
- A severe headache or neck stiffness.
- Confusion, difficulty with balance, or seizures.
- Symptoms during or after travelling to a country where tick-borne encephalitis is present.
Health information notice: This page is for general guidance and does not replace a personal consultation. Our pharmacist confirms suitability, doses and timings at your appointment, based on your destination, medical history and travel plans.