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What is Tick-borne encephalitis?
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that attacks the central nervous system, transmitted primarily through the bites of infected ticks. It is endemic in wooded and rural areas across large parts of Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, as well as parts of Asia. While many infections are mild or asymptomatic, TBE can cause severe neurological disease, including meningitis, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), long-term paralysis, and permanent cognitive or neurological impairment.
At Livewell Clinic Pharmacy, we offer a private Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccination Service using Ticovac® at our Soho, London clinic to protect travellers, outdoor enthusiasts, and expatriates heading to risk-endemic regions.
Why get vaccinated against tick-borne encephalitis?
Because there is no specific antiviral treatment for TBE once infected, pre-exposure vaccination is your best defence:
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Targeted High-Risk Protection: Strongly recommended for individuals visiting wooded, rural, or grassy areas in endemic countries, especially those who enjoy camping, hiking, orienteering, forestry work, or berry and mushroom picking.
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High Seroconversion Rates: Completing the primary vaccination course provides robust, long-lasting immunity against the virus.
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Age-Specific Formulation: Available in age-appropriate formulations tailored for both children and adults.
Dosing Schedule & Course Options
To build effective protection before exposure, you can choose between a standard or rapid schedule:
1. Standard Schedule
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Dose 1: Day 0
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Dose 2: Administered 1 to 3 months after the first dose (provides high protection for the current tick season if timed correctly).
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Dose 3: Administered 5 to 12 months after the second dose to complete the primary course and secure long-term protection.
2. Rapid / Accelerated Schedule (For Imminent Travel)
If you are travelling at short notice during tick season:
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Dose 1: Day 0
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Dose 2: Administered 14 days after the first dose.
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Dose 3: Administered 5 to 12 months after the second dose.
3. Booster Doses
To maintain immunity, booster doses are generally recommended every 3 to 5 years depending on your age and ongoing exposure risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who should consider getting the TBE vaccine?
Vaccination is recommended for travellers visiting risk-endemic countries (such as Austria, Germany, Switzerland,Slovenia, Sweden, parts of Eastern Europe, and the Baltics) who plan to spend time outdoors in rural, forested, or grassy habitats where ticks thrive.
Does the vaccine protect against Lyme disease?
No. Ticovac® protects specifically against the tick-borne encephalitis virus. It does not protect against Lyme disease or other tick-borne bacterial infections. Protective clothing and tick bite prevention measures remain essential.
Who should NOT receive the vaccine?
You should postpone or avoid vaccination if you:
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Have a known severe allergy (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of Ticovac® or any of its ingredients (such as trace residues of formaldehyde or protamine sulphate).
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Are currently unwell with an acute severe febrile illness on the day of your appointment.
What are the common side effects?
Ticovac® is generally well tolerated. Mild and temporary side effects usually resolve within a few days and include:
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Pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
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Mild headache, fatigue, or muscle/joint aches
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Mild low-grade fever or general malaise (particularly after the first dose)
Does the vaccine eliminate the need for tick bite prevention?
No. Vaccination is an important layer of defence, but it should always be combined with practical tick-prevention measures:
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Wear long trousers tucked into socks and long-sleeved shirts when walking in wooded or tall-grass areas.
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Use insect repellents containing DEET on skin or clothing.
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Inspect your skin and clothing thoroughly for ticks after outdoor activities, and remove any attached ticks promptly using clean tweezers.
Book Your Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccination Today
Plan ahead to ensure you complete your vaccination schedule prior to your departure:
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Book Online: Select a travel consultation slot via our online booking system.
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Clinical Risk Assessment: Meet with our pharmacist at our Soho, London clinic to review your itinerary, outdoor activities, and medical history.
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Vaccination: Receive your jab safely in a professional, private clinical environment.