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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccination can reduce the risk of a potentially serious viral brain infection acquired from ticks in affected regions.

What is it?

TBE is transmitted mainly through infected tick bites. Some infections progress to meningitis or encephalitis and can cause lasting neurological problems.

Where it may be relevant

  • Walking, camping, forestry or outdoor work in affected parts of Europe and Asia
  • Travel during tick season in rural, wooded or grassy areas
  • Long stays or repeated visits where tick exposure is likely

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Standard primary course

Adults and children

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 21–3 months
Dose 35–12 months after dose 2

Rapid options

Product- and age-dependent

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 2Day 14
Dose 35–12 months after dose 2

The exact accelerated schedule depends on the vaccine supplied.

Who may be eligible

  • Adults and children from the selected product's licensed age with meaningful exposure
  • People needing a booster because risk continues

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the TBE vaccine protect against?

It reduces the risk of tick-borne encephalitis.

Who should consider the TBE vaccine?

It is considered for outdoor exposure in affected wooded, grassy or rural regions.

How many doses of the TBE vaccine are needed?

Most products use three primary doses, with standard and accelerated intervals available.

Can I have the TBE vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the TBE vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.