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Tick-borne encephalitis Vaccine

Tick-borne Encephalitis
Vaccine for Travel

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Tick-borne encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection usually transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. The disease occurs in parts of central, northern and Eastern Europe, Siberia and parts of Asia. Most infections occur during hiking activities in the above areas.

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

Hawne Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 0121 501 3518

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

177 Stourbridge Rd, Halesowen, B63 3UD

Bills Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01384 872117

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

29 High St, Kinver, Stourbridge, DY7 6HF

Millard and Bullock Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01902 883 182

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Castle Street, Bilston, WV14 9DD

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, specifically the brain and spinal cord. It is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, primarily the Ixodes species, and less commonly through the consumption of unpasteurised dairy products from infected animals. TBE is endemic in several parts of Europe and Asia, particularly in forested or grassy areas where ticks thrive. The infection can cause anything from mild flu-like illness to serious neurological complications, including meningitis, encephalitis, and, in some cases, long-term brain damage or paralysis. While many people recover fully, a proportion of those infected (particularly older adults) may suffer permanent effects, making awareness and prevention critical for those spending time in high-risk regions.

TBE is primarily spread via the bite of an infected tick, which often attaches to the skin while a person is walking through tall grass, bushes, or wooded areas. Ticks are most active during the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn, and can go unnoticed for hours or days after biting. Less commonly, the virus can be transmitted through the consumption of raw, unpasteurised milk from infected goats, sheep, or cows. Prevention focuses on reducing exposure to tick bites. This includes wearing long sleeves and trousers, using insect repellents containing DEET, tucking trousers into socks, and conducting thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. In high-risk areas, especially for people hiking, camping, or working in rural environments, vaccination is recommended and offers effective protection against the virus.

The symptoms of TBE often appear in two distinct phases. The first phase usually occurs around one to two weeks after a tick bite and resembles a non-specific viral illness, with symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. This phase may last a few days before symptoms subside. In some people, the illness progresses to a second, more serious neurological phase after a short symptom-free period. This may include high fever, neck stiffness, severe headache, confusion, drowsiness, and even seizures or paralysis in severe cases. Not everyone develops the second phase, but those who do may require hospitalisation, and recovery can take weeks or months. Long-term complications, including memory problems, coordination issues, or hearing loss, are possible in a small number of cases.

The TBE vaccine is highly effective and typically involves a course of three injections. The first two doses are given one to three months apart, offering short-term protection, while the third dose, administered five to twelve months later, provides long-term immunity. After completing the full course, protection generally lasts for at least three years. A booster dose is recommended every three to five years for those who remain at continued risk. For last-minute travellers, an accelerated schedule is available, but full protection is not guaranteed until after the second dose. The vaccine is suitable for adults and children over one year of age, depending on the product used and individual travel plans.

The TBE vaccine is recommended for travel to areas where the virus is endemic, particularly if the visit involves outdoor activities in rural or forested regions. These areas include parts of Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Poland, the Czech Republic, the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania), Russia, and certain regions of China and Japan. Risk is typically higher in spring and summer when tick activity peaks. Travellers hiking, camping, or working outdoors in these countries (especially for extended stays) should strongly consider vaccination. For short city visits, the risk is extremely low, and routine immunisation is generally not necessary unless advised by a healthcare provider.

The TBE vaccine is generally safe and well tolerated. Common side effects include redness, swelling, or discomfort at the injection site, as well as mild fever, headache, or fatigue in the days following vaccination. These symptoms are usually short-lived and resolve without treatment. Serious side effects are very rare but may include allergic reactions. The vaccine does not contain live virus and cannot cause the disease. It is not suitable for individuals with a known allergy to any of the vaccine components, and medical advice should be sought before vaccination in those with compromised immune systems or other significant health concerns. Overall, the vaccine offers a strong level of protection with minimal risk, making it an important consideration for at-risk travellers.

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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The West Midlands Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

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