Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine
Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine at Our Pharmacy
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of infected ticks. Ticks carrying the TBE virus are found in parts of Europe (including the UK) and Asia, though the risk of contracting TBE in the UK is very low.
TBE Vaccine
The TBE vaccine is recommended if you are travelling to areas where TBE is common and plan to spend time outdoors.
You will need at least two injections, given at least two weeks apart, to ensure you are protected before travel. The first dose should be administered at least one month prior to departure.
Book your appointment now to stay protected against pneumococcal.
Frequently asked questions
Am I at Risk of Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE)?
While the overall risk of TBE is low, ticks that spread the virus can be found in:
- Most of Europe, including the UK
- Russia
- Parts of China and Japan
Ticks typically live in woodlands and grassy areas, but may also be found in some parks and gardens. In the UK, only a very small number of ticks carry the TBE virus, so even if bitten, the likelihood of becoming seriously unwell is minimal. TBE can also be contracted by consuming raw (unpasteurised) milk or dairy products.
How Can I Reduce My Risk of TBE?
Whether in the UK or abroad, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Regularly check your clothes and skin for ticks and remove them promptly.
- Wear light-coloured clothing to make ticks easier to spot.
- Stick to clearly defined paths to avoid brushing against vegetation.
- Use insect repellent such as DEET on your skin; clothing treated with repellent is also available.
- Cover up with long trousers and long-sleeved tops to reduce exposed skin.
Ticks can be very small and difficult to notice, but they become larger once they attach and feed.
Who Should Have the TBE Vaccine?
The TBE vaccine is recommended if you are travelling to areas where TBE is common and plan to spend time outdoors.
You will need at least two injections, given at least two weeks apart, to ensure you are protected before travel. The first dose should be administered at least one month prior to departure.
What are the Symptoms of Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE)?
Many people infected with the TBE virus do not experience symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they often appear about a week after a tick bite and may include:
- High temperature
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Aches and pains
- Nausea
These symptoms usually resolve on their own. However, in rare cases, the infection can progress to the brain, causing more severe symptoms such as:
- Stiff neck and severe headache
- Pain when looking at bright lights
- Fits (seizures)
- Behavioural changes, confusion, or slurred speech
- Weakness or loss of movement in parts of the body
If you are concerned about your risk or would like advice on TBE vaccination, our pharmacist is available to help.
Prices
| Service | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | 2 doses • Lasts 20+ years | Junior: £65 Adult: £65 |
| Hepatitis B | 3 doses • Check immunity in 5 years | Junior: £38 Adult: £60 |
| Hepatitis A + B (Combined) | 3 doses • Check Hep B immunity in 5 years | Junior: £70 Adult: £85 |
| Hepatitis A + Typhoid | Typhoid: 3 yrs • Hep A booster at 6–12 months | £99 per dose |
| Typhoid | Lasts 3 years | Injection: £40 Oral: £40 |
| Malaria – Atovaquone/Proguanil | Daily from 2 days before to 7 days after return | Adult: £2.50 per tablet |
| Malaria – Malarone Paediatric | Same schedule as above | Junior: £2.00 per tablet |
| Malaria – Malarone Adult | Same schedule as above | Adult: £4.00 per tablet |
| Malaria – Doxycycline | Start 1–2 days before and 4 weeks after return | £0.70 per capsule |
| Malaria – Chloroquine | Weekly from 1 week before to 4 weeks after | £0.80 per tablet |
| Malaria – Mefloquine | Weekly from 2–3 weeks before to 4 weeks after | £5.00 per tablet |
| Cholera | 2-dose pack | £67.00 |
| Rabies (Per Dose) | Standard single dose | £99.00 |
| Rabies (Full Course) | 3 doses • Booster after 2–3 yrs if needed | £297.00 |
| Meningitis ACWY | Lasts 5 years | £65 |
| Tick-Borne Encephalitis | 3 doses • Booster every 3–5 years | Adult: £75 Child: £75 |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Standard course | £95.00 |
| Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio Booster | Lasts 10 years | £43.00 |
Book an Appointment
Book your appointment now for expert travel health advice and to stay protected against TBE.
