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    Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE)

    Protects against encephalitis transmitted by ticks.

    Protects against

    Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)

    Validity

    1 year after 2 doses, 3 years after 3 doses

    Schedule

    2-3 doses: 2nd after 1-3 months, 3rd after 5-12 months

    Side effects

    Usually mild

    About Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE)

    Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral infection of the nervous system, transmitted by tick bites. The disease progresses in two phases and can lead to meningitis with permanent damage.

    How is it transmitted?

    The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. Ticks are most active from April to November in forested areas. Very rarely, the virus can also be transmitted through unpasteurized dairy products.

    Symptoms

    Phase 1 (1-2 weeks after bite): flu-like symptoms
    Symptom-free period of several days
    Phase 2: high fever, severe headache
    Stiff neck
    Confusion
    Paralysis

    Possible complications

    • Permanent neurological damage
    • Concentration problems
    • Memory problems
    • Paralysis
    • Death (1-2% of severe cases)

    Risk areas

    Central Europe (Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Czech Republic)Eastern Europe (Poland, Baltic states, Russia)Scandinavia (especially Sweden)Parts of Asia (Siberia, China)

    About the vaccination

    Vaccine type

    Inactivated vaccine

    How does it work?

    The vaccine contains killed TBE viruses that train your immune system.

    ⏱️ When to vaccinate?

    Ideally months in advance (for complete series). Accelerated schedule available.

    Effectiveness

    Very high: >95% after complete vaccination.

    Who should get this vaccination?

    • Hikers and campers in risk areas
    • People who spend a lot of time in nature in risk areas
    • Long-term residents in forested risk areas
    • People who work professionally in forests

    Not suitable for

    • People with severe allergic reaction to previous dose or chicken egg protein
    • People with severe acute illness

    Possible side effects

    Local reactions, headache, fatigue.

    💡 Good to know

    Even with vaccination, checking for ticks after walks remains important.

    Book an appointment?

    Contact us for personal advice about your vaccinations.

    Personal care

    We respect your preferences. You can choose a male or female practitioner.

    Short waiting time

    Usually available within a week. Call for urgent appointments.

    View pricing

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    Destinations where this vaccination is relevant

    Check the full advice for your destination.

    All destinations →

    Frequently asked questions

    Which areas make TBE vaccination worthwhile?

    Forested areas in Central and Eastern Europe, Scandinavia and parts of Asia, especially when camping, hiking or working outdoors.

    Does it also protect against Lyme disease?

    No. There is no vaccine against Lyme. Always check for ticks and remove them quickly.

    Need more vaccinations?

    View all travel vaccinations we offer or book an appointment for personal advice.

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