Tick-borne encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis Vaccine for Travel

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Vaccines Tick-borne encephalitis vaccination

Vaccines 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.

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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

Prevention

Travellers should:

  • Vaccination recommended for at risk travellers
  • Avoid known heavily tick-infested areas of forest and woodland during the spring, summer and autumn where possible
  • Regularly check for ticks attached to the skin
  • Take general bite avoidance measures: wear repellents, cover skin as appropriate etc.
  • Remove ticks as soon as possible by using a pair of fine tipped tweezers or tick remover
  • Avoid consuming unpasteurised dairy products in areas of risk (a potential route of transmission)

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

How do you catch Tick-borne Encephalitis?

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection primarily transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The specific ticks responsible for transmitting TBE are typically found in forested areas and rural regions. The main ways in which TBE can be contracted include:

  1. Tick bites: The primary mode of transmission is through the bite of infected ticks, particularly species belonging to the Ixodes family. When an infected tick attaches itself to a human, it can transmit the TBE virus into the bloodstream.
  2. Consuming unpasteurized dairy products: In rare cases, TBE can also be transmitted through the consumption of unpasteurized dairy products, such as milk or cheese, derived from infected animals, particularly goats, sheep, or cows.

It's important to note that person-to-person transmission of TBE is extremely rare and has only been reported in isolated cases, such as through organ transplantation or blood transfusion from an infected donor.

The risk of contracting TBE is higher for individuals who live in or visit areas where the virus is endemic, particularly in parts of Europe and Asia. Engaging in outdoor activities in forested or rural areas, where ticks are more prevalent, can increase the risk of exposure.

Preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents, checking the body for ticks after outdoor activities, and promptly removing attached ticks can help reduce the risk of contracting tick-borne encephalitis. In regions where TBE is endemic, vaccination is available and recommended for individuals at higher risk, such as those living in or traveling to affected areas.

Who is at risk from Tick-borne Encephalitis?

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) can affect individuals of all ages who reside in or travel to regions where the virus is prevalent. However, certain groups are at higher risk of contracting TBE or experiencing severe symptoms if infected. These include:

  1. Outdoor enthusiasts: Individuals who engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, hunting, or forestry work, in forested or rural areas where infected ticks are commonly found, are at increased risk of tick exposure.
  2. Residents of endemic regions: People living in or near areas where TBE is endemic, particularly in parts of Europe and Asia, are at higher risk due to regular exposure to tick habitats.
  3. Travelers to endemic regions: Individuals who travel to regions with a known TBE risk, especially during the tick season, may be exposed to infected ticks and are at increased risk of infection.
  4. Agricultural and forestry workers: People employed in occupations that involve working in outdoor environments, such as farmers, forest workers, and park rangers, are more likely to come into contact with infected ticks.
  5. Children: Children, especially those who spend significant time outdoors, may be at higher risk due to their limited awareness of tick bite prevention and higher likelihood of close contact with tick habitats.

It's important to note that not all ticks carry the TBE virus, and the risk of infection may vary depending on the specific geographic location and tick population. Taking preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents, and checking the body for ticks after outdoor activities can help reduce the risk of contracting TBE. In regions where TBE is endemic, vaccination is available and recommended, particularly for individuals at higher risk.

Symptoms of Tick-borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) can manifest in different ways depending on the individual and the severity of the infection. The incubation period for TBE is typically 7 to 14 days after a tick bite. The symptoms can be categorized into two phases: the initial phase and the neurological phase.

  1. Fever: A sudden onset of fever is common, often accompanied by chills and fatigue.
  2. Headache: Intense headaches, often located at the front or sides of the head, can occur.
  3. Muscle aches: Generalized muscle pain and body aches are common.
  4. Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
  5. Flu-like symptoms: Symptoms resembling the flu, including sore throat, cough, and runny nose, can be present.
  6. Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and weakness may be experienced.
  7. Meningitis: TBE can progress to involve the central nervous system, resulting in meningitis characterized by severe headaches, neck stiffness, and sensitivity to light.
  8. Encephalitis: In more severe cases, TBE can cause encephalitis, which involves inflammation of the brain. Symptoms can include high fever, confusion, disorientation, difficulty speaking, tremors, seizures, and impaired consciousness.
  9. Paralysis: Rarely, TBE may lead to paralysis, typically affecting the limbs or facial muscles.

It's important to note that not all individuals infected with TBE will develop symptoms, and those who do may experience varying degrees of severity. Some cases can be mild and self-limiting, while others may progress to severe neurological complications. Seeking medical attention is important if TBE is suspected, particularly if neurological symptoms arise. Treatment primarily focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Vaccination against TBE is available and recommended for individuals residing in or traveling to regions with a known risk of TBE transmission.

Vaccines Tick-borne encephalitis Risk Areas

Vaccines Tick-borne encephalitis Risk Areas

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