What is it?
Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral infection spread through the bite of an infected tick. It can also be spread via unpasteurized milk from infected cows, sheep and goats.
Risk areas
The disease occurs in parts of central, northern and Eastern Europe, Siberia and parts of Asia. In Europe, early spring through to late autumn are generally higher risk, however seasons vary by location. Travellers to areas where Tick-Borne Encephalitis is present may be at risk when walking, camping or working in woodland areas.
Prevention
Travellers should avoid known heavily tick-infested areas of forest and woodland during transmission seasons. Bite avoidance measures should also be employed when in risk areas and body should be checked regularly for ticks.
Vaccine schedule
Vaccination is available for all travellers to rural risk areas or those whose activities may put them at increased risk.
| Vaccine | Schedule |
|---|---|
|
TicoVac & TicoVac Junior |
3 doses on days 0, between 1 and 3 months, and 5 to 12 months after the second dose (2nd dose can be given 2 weeks after 1st dose if necessary). |
Length of protection
First booster no more than 3 years after 3rd dose. After this, boosters may be given at 5 year intervals if at risk.