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What is tick-borne encephalitis?
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection spread by infected ticks, mainly found in parts of central, eastern, and northern Europe, as well as parts of Asia. The virus can cause inflammation of the brain and surrounding tissues, leading to fever, headache, and in severe cases, neurological complications. Most people infected have mild or no symptoms, but some develop serious illness requiring hospital care.
The TBE vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection if you are travelling to or working in areas where the virus is present. It works by training your immune system to recognise and fight the virus if you are exposed to an infected tick.
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Who is it for?
The TBE vaccine is recommended for anyone planning to travel to or work in regions where the virus is endemic, particularly if you will be spending time outdoors in woodland, grassland, or rural areas where ticks are common. It is also suitable for people who have previously lived in or frequently visit at-risk areas.
You may be a good candidate for the TBE vaccine if you meet any of the following:
- Travelling to central, eastern, or northern Europe
- Travelling to parts of Russia, China, or other endemic areas in Asia
- Planning outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or forestry work
- Spending extended time in rural or woodland areas during tick season
- Previously lived in an endemic region and wish to maintain immunity
- Working in occupations with tick exposure (forestry, agriculture, wildlife management)
Speak to our team to discuss your travel plans and confirm whether the vaccine is right for you.
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How the vaccine works and what to expect
The TBE vaccine is given as a series of injections. The standard schedule involves three doses: two doses given 1 to 3 months apart, followed by a third dose 9 to 12 months later. This builds strong, long-lasting immunity. If you need protection quickly, a faster schedule can sometimes be arranged, though this is less ideal and should be discussed with our team.
At your appointment, our pharmacist will discuss your travel dates, medical history, and any allergies. We will then administer the injection, usually in the upper arm. The appointment takes about 15 minutes. After your vaccination, you can return to normal activities straight away, though some people experience mild arm soreness or low-grade fever for a day or two.
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Things to know before your appointment
The TBE vaccine is not suitable for everyone. If you have a severe allergy to any ingredient in the vaccine, or if you are acutely unwell with fever, you should not receive it. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to our team or your GP before booking, as the vaccine is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the risk of TBE is very high.
If you are taking medicines that suppress your immune system, or if you have a condition affecting your immune system, let us know when you book so we can advise whether the vaccine will be effective for you.
Standard reasons we may need to reschedule your appointment:
- Acute fever or acute illness
- Severe allergic reaction to vaccine components
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Severe immunosuppression
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After your vaccination
Most people have no side effects beyond mild arm soreness or slight tiredness. These usually settle within a day or two. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with any discomfort.
Serious side effects are very rare. If you develop signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing) within minutes of the injection, alert our team immediately. If you develop unusual symptoms in the days after vaccination, contact your GP or call NHS 111 for advice.
Your immunity builds over the course of the vaccination series. You will not be fully protected until you have completed all three doses. Plan your travel dates accordingly and book your appointments in good time.
“I was nervous about the injections, but the team made it really straightforward. They explained everything clearly and I felt confident heading off on my hiking trip.”
No GP referral needed
Book directly with our team. We handle all the paperwork and give you the vaccine in one appointment.
Pharmacist-led service
Our experienced pharmacy team administers the vaccine and answers all your questions about travel health and tick prevention.
Flexible appointment times
We offer appointments to fit around your schedule, so you can plan your vaccination before your trip.
Rapid schedules available
If you are travelling soon, we can discuss faster vaccination schedules to get you protected in time.
