Chiswick Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccination

What Is Tick-Borne Encephalitis?

Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection of the brain caused by the TBE virus, transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Ixodes ticks (the same tick species that transmits Lyme disease). In rare cases, it can also be acquired through consuming unpasteurised dairy products from infected animals.

TBE is found across a wide belt of forested areas stretching from Central Europe through Russia to Japan. The risk is highest between April and November, when ticks are most active. The disease causes a flu-like illness that, in around 20–30% of symptomatic cases, progresses to severe encephalitis, meningitis, or myelitis. There is no specific antiviral treatment — prevention through vaccination and tick avoidance is therefore essential for at-risk travellers.

Do I Need the TBE Vaccine?

TBE vaccine is recommended for travellers who plan to spend time in forested, rural, or agricultural areas of endemic countries. Key risk groups include:

Urban tourists visiting major cities are at very low risk and generally do not require vaccination.

• Hikers, campers, and cyclists in the forests of Central and Eastern Europe or Scandinavia
• Those undertaking adventure sports (trail running, mountain biking, wild swimming) in endemic areas
• Travellers staying in rural cottages or forest cabins between April and November
• Fieldworkers, forestry workers, and researchers spending time outdoors in endemic regions
• Families travelling to endemic areas with children who play outdoors

When Should I Get Vaccinated?

Ideally, start the course several months before travel so the full 3-dose primary schedule can be completed. If you’re short on time, the second dose can be brought forward to 2 weeks after the first, giving at least 90% protection for your trip — though the third dose is still needed afterwards for full, long-term protection. Speak to our pharmacist as early as possible so we can plan the right schedule for your travel dates.

How Many Doses Do I Need?

The primary course is 3 doses: the first on day 0, the second 1–3 months later, and the third 5–12 months after the second. For rapid short-term protection, the second dose can instead be given just 2 weeks after the first, offering at least 90% protection — but the third dose still follows the same 5–12 month timeline afterwards to complete your full protection. If you remain at risk, a first booster is recommended within 3 years of the third dose, with further boosters every 5 years after that.

Side Effects of the TBE Vaccine

The TBE vaccine is generally well tolerated. Common side effects include localised soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, along with headache, muscle aches, and mild fatigue — typically resolving within 1–2 days. A low-grade fever may occur, particularly after the first dose. Serious allergic reactions are very rare.