Get the Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine at Medichem Pharmacy
Tick-Borne Encephalitis is a viral infection that can typically be acquired through the bite of an
infected tick. The ticks exist in parts of central, eastern and northern Europe, across Russia to parts
of east Asia. Predominantly at altitudes lower than 1,500m.
The disease is observed in parts of central, northern and Eastern Europe, Siberia and parts of Asia. Ticks are found on riverside meadows and marshland, forest glades, forest fringes within adjacent
grassland, forest plantations with brushwood and shrubbery. You can also find Ticks in parks and
gardens
Travellers to areas where TBE is reported may be at risk when working in woodland, walking or camping. In Europe, spring and summer are generally higher risk, but seasons vary according to location. Since 2011, six confirmed cases of TBE have been reported in the UK. All had a history of travel to the TBE endemic areas of Europe.
Typically, the disease occurs in two stages: a mild flu-like illness before a potentially severe central nervous system infection (brain and spinal cord). TBE is rarely fatal in Europe; however, it can be fatal in up to 20 per cent of cases in Asia. Long-term neurological complications are common.
How to prevent Tick-Borne Encephalitis
Travellers should:
- Avoid known tick-infested areas of forest and woodland during the spring, summer and autumn where possible
- Practise bite avoidance methods, such as using effective insect repellents and wearing appropriate clothing
- Check your body for ticks more often. The larval forms of Ixodes ticks are tiny and difficult to see
- Remove ticks as soon as possible by using a pair of fine-tipped tweezers or tick remover.
- Avoid consumption of unpasteurised dairy products in areas of risk (a potential route of transmission)
- Seek advice from a medical practitioner if any signs of illness occur within 28 days of a tick bite.
- TBE vaccination is available for people travelling to rural risk areas or whose occupation may expose them to higher risk.
