Tick-Borne Encephalitis

About Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that can cause a serious neurological illness. Although it is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, unpasteurised dairy products from infected animals can also pose a risk.

Ticks that spread the infection are mainly found in rural areas such as forests, woods, grasslands, riverside meadows, marshes, brushwood and scrublands in parts of central, northern and eastern Europe, Siberia, parts of Asia and some parts of the UK.

The vaccine is not available on the NHS.

Symptoms of Tick-borne Encephalitis

Flu-like symptoms
Fever
Headache
Tiredness
Muscle pain

Treatment

There is currently no treatment available for Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE).

Prevention

To reduce the risk of being bitten:-

Cover your skin while walking outdoors and tuck your trousers into your socks
Use DEET insect repellent on your clothes and skin
Stick to paths whenever possible
Wear light-coloured clothing so ticks are easier to spot and brush off

Tick-borne Encephalitis Vaccinations

The most effective way to prevent TBE is through vaccination. This is particularly important if you are spending long periods in forested and rural areas of countries with TBE and you are travelling to go hiking, camping, walking, running cycling or orienteering.

Tick-borne Encephalitis Vaccinations for adults – 1 dose required