Travel vaccine
Tick-Borne Encephalitis
A viral brain infection spread by tick bites in forested parts of Europe and Asia.
About the disease
Tick-borne encephalitis is caused by a virus carried by ticks living in forests, woodland edges and long grass. Many infections are mild, but the virus can spread to the brain and nervous system, sometimes leaving lasting effects. The risk is highest from spring through to autumn, when ticks are most active and outdoor activity peaks.
Who is most at risk
The danger comes mainly from spending time outdoors in affected regions. Hikers, campers, mountain bikers and anyone working or rambling in wooded countryside have the greatest chance of being bitten. If your trip involves country walks or overnight stays near forests, this vaccine is worth discussing.
The vaccine and staying safe
A primary course of three doses builds reliable protection, and we can arrange an accelerated schedule if your departure is close. Vaccination should sit alongside simple tick precautions: wear long sleeves and trousers, use repellent, and check your skin for ticks at the end of each day. To set up your course, book a travel consultation at Crewe Pharmacy, 139-141 Nantwich Road, and we will plan the doses around your travel dates.
How it spreads
Caught from the bite of an infected tick, and occasionally from unpasteurised milk or dairy products from infected animals.
Who should be vaccinated
Walkers, campers, cyclists and forestry or outdoor workers visiting wooded and grassland areas of central, eastern and northern Europe and parts of Asia.
Vaccination schedule
3 doses over several months (an accelerated schedule is available for last-minute travel)
Boosters
A booster is advised after 3 years if exposure continues.
Possible side effects
Soreness at the injection site, headache, tiredness and a mild temperature in the first day or so.
Regions where there is a risk
Central Europe, Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, Northern Asia.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis — frequently asked questions
Who needs the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine?
The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is mainly for walkers, campers, cyclists and forestry or outdoor workers visiting wooded and grassland areas where the virus is present. If your trip involves country walks, camping or overnight stays near forests, it is well worth considering. Our team at Crewe Pharmacy can help you decide based on your plans.
How many doses of the TBE vaccine do I need?
A primary course of 3 doses gives reliable protection against tick-borne encephalitis. The injections are normally spread over several months, though an accelerated schedule is available if your departure is close. Completing the full course builds the strongest, most lasting immunity before you spend time in tick areas.
How long does the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine protect me for?
After completing the three-dose primary course, a booster is advised after 3 years if your exposure continues. This means regular travellers or outdoor workers returning to affected areas should keep their cover up to date. If you only visit a risk region occasionally, our team can advise when a further dose would be sensible.
Can I get the TBE vaccine for last-minute travel from Crewe?
Yes, an accelerated schedule is available if your departure date is close. This allows the doses to be given over a shorter period so you can build protection before you leave. The sooner you start, the better, so call 01270 215837 or visit Crewe Pharmacy at 139-141 Nantwich Road to plan an accelerated course.
What are the side effects of the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine?
Side effects are usually mild and settle within a day or so. You may have soreness at the injection site, a headache, tiredness and a mild temperature shortly after the injection. These reactions show your immune system is responding and rarely cause lasting trouble. Let our team know if you have had reactions to vaccines before.
Is the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine free on the NHS or private?
The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is a private travel vaccine and is not routinely available free on the NHS. You can arrange the full course privately at Crewe Pharmacy, which lets you plan the doses around your travel dates. This is the practical route for most travellers heading to wooded parts of Europe and Asia.
How much does the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine cost in Crewe?
The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine costs £70 per dose at Crewe Pharmacy. As the primary course is three doses, you should budget for all three to gain full protection. To discuss the cost and plan your schedule, including an accelerated course if needed, call 01270 215837 or visit us at 139-141 Nantwich Road.
Which countries have a risk of tick-borne encephalitis?
Tick-borne encephalitis is found in forested and grassland areas of central Europe, eastern Europe, Scandinavia and northern Asia. The risk is highest from spring through to autumn, when ticks are most active. If you are heading to wooded countryside in these regions for outdoor activities, the vaccine is worth discussing with our team.