Tick-borne encephalitis Vaccine available at Worcester Travel Clinic

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 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.

View all vaccine prices

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

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Claines Pharmacy 153 Ombersley Rd, Worcester, WR3 7BX

Book this clinic

Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Evans Pharmacy 231 Worcester Rd, Malvern, WR14 1SU

Book this clinic

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.

What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis?

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus, a member of the Flavivirus family, and can lead to serious complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and, in some cases, long-term neurological damage. While some infections result in only mild flu-like symptoms, others can develop into severe illness requiring hospital care. The disease is primarily found in parts of Europe and Asia and is becoming more of a concern due to the increasing range of ticks in temperate climates. TBE is considered a medical emergency in severe cases, and there is no specific antiviral treatment, making prevention through vaccination and tick avoidance essential.

How does it spread and how to prevent it?

TBE is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the Ixodes ricinus and Ixodes persulcatusspecies. These ticks are typically found in grassy or wooded areas and are most active during the warmer months from spring to early autumn. In rare cases, TBE can also be contracted by consuming unpasteurised dairy products from infected animals. The best way to prevent infection is by avoiding tick bites—this includes wearing long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellent containing DEET, and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors. Prompt removal of ticks can reduce the risk of transmission. Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure for those travelling to high-risk areas or spending significant time outdoors in endemic regions.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of tick-borne encephalitis often appear in two phases. The first phase, which occurs about one to two weeks after a tick bite, typically presents with non-specific flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. These symptoms may subside after a few days, leading some individuals to believe they are recovering. However, in around 20 to 30 per cent of symptomatic cases, the second phase begins after a brief symptom-free period. This phase involves neurological symptoms including severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, dizziness, and, in more serious cases, seizures, paralysis, or coma. While many patients recover fully, some are left with lasting complications such as memory problems, concentration difficulties, or motor impairment. The risk of severe illness increases with age.

How long does the vaccine last?

The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine provides effective and long-lasting protection when administered correctly. The standard vaccination schedule includes two initial doses given one to three months apart, followed by a third dose 5 to 12 months later. Full protection is generally achieved two weeks after the second dose, and the third dose extends immunity for at least three years. After that, booster doses are recommended every three to five years depending on ongoing risk and age. For those needing quick protection before travel, an accelerated schedule is available. The vaccine is suitable for adults and children over the age of one year and is highly recommended for individuals at prolonged risk.

Countries I need the vaccine for

The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is recommended for travellers visiting rural or forested areas in countries where TBE is endemic, especially during spring and summer months when ticks are most active. Affected regions include parts of Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, such as Austria, Germany, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), Poland, and Slovenia, as well as areas in Scandinavia and Russia. The virus is also present in parts of China, Mongolia, and Japan. Vaccination is particularly advised for those hiking, camping, cycling, or engaging in outdoor work in these areas, especially where healthcare access is limited.

Vaccine Side effects

The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is generally well tolerated and considered very safe. The most common side effects are mild and include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Some individuals may experience fatigue, low-grade fever, headache, or muscle aches shortly after vaccination. These symptoms are usually short-lived and resolve on their own. Serious side effects are extremely rare, but as with all vaccines, there is a very small risk of allergic reaction. The vaccine can be given to both adults and children over 12 months old. People with a history of severe allergies or those with specific medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine. Overall, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks for those travelling to or living in TBE-endemic areas.