Tick-borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis, also known as TBE, is a viral infection spread mainly through the bite of infected ticks. In rare cases, it can also be linked to unpasteurised dairy products in areas where the virus is present.

TBE can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, tiredness, headache and muscle pain. In some cases, it can affect the brain and nervous system, leading to more serious illness.

If you are travelling to a country where TBE is present, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors, vaccination may be recommended.

Tick-borne encephalitis is found in parts of Europe and Asia. The risk may be higher in forested areas, grasslands, rural areas and locations where ticks are common.

You may be at increased risk if you are planning activities such as:

• Camping
• Hiking
• Trekking
• Cycling
• Fishing
• Hunting
• Working outdoors
• Staying in rural or forested areas
• Long-term travel in risk areas

Our travel clinic team can check your destination and advise whether the TBE vaccine is recommended for your trip.

TBE is usually spread through the bite of an infected tick. Ticks are often found in wooded, grassy and rural areas, and they can attach to the skin when you walk through vegetation.

The virus is not normally spread from person to person.

Reducing tick bites is an important part of protection, even if you have been vaccinated.

If you are travelling to an area where ticks may be present, you should take precautions to reduce your risk.

Helpful prevention tips include:

• Wear long-sleeved tops and long trousers outdoors
• Tuck trousers into socks when walking through long grass
• Use insect repellent suitable for ticks
• Stay on clear paths where possible
• Avoid walking through long grass or dense vegetation
• Check your skin and clothing regularly for ticks
• Remove ticks safely as soon as possible
• Avoid unpasteurised milk or dairy products in risk areas

Our team can provide practical travel advice during your appointment.

The TBE vaccine helps protect against tick-borne encephalitis and may be recommended if you are travelling to affected areas and your planned activities increase your risk.

The vaccine is usually given as a course of 3 doses. For travel protection, at least 2 doses are normally needed before travel. The second dose may be given at least 2 weeks after the first dose when faster protection is required.

To get the best protection, it is recommended to book your appointment in good time before your trip.

You may need to consider the TBE vaccine if:

• You are travelling to a country where TBE is present
• You will be spending time in forests, parks, grasslands or rural areas
• You are going camping, hiking, cycling or trekking
• You are travelling for outdoor work or fieldwork
• You are staying in a high-risk area for a longer period
• You are visiting during warmer months when ticks may be more active

If you are unsure whether you need the vaccine, Rusholme Pharmacy can provide destination-specific advice.

The TBE vaccine may not be suitable for everyone. Before vaccination, our pharmacy team will ask a few health questions to make sure it is appropriate for you.

Please tell us if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a weakened immune system
• Have had a serious allergic reaction to a vaccine before
• Are currently unwell with a high temperature
• Are taking medication that affects your immune system
• Have any allergies or ongoing medical conditions
• Are booking for a young child

Our team will review your circumstances and advise you on the most suitable option.

Rusholme Pharmacy provides convenient travel clinic services for the local community in Rusholme, Manchester and surrounding areas. Our pharmacy team can help you understand your travel health requirements and prepare safely before your trip.

• Local travel clinic in Rusholme
• Professional travel health advice
• TBE vaccination support
• Advice tailored to your destination and activities
• Support for adults and children, subject to suitability
• Easy appointment booking

If you are travelling to a TBE risk area, it is important to prepare before you go. Book your travel health appointment with Rusholme Pharmacy and get advice tailored to your destination and travel plans.

Book your Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccination today and travel with greater confidence.