Tick Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

At Kennedy’s Pharmacy, we offer a Travel Vaccination Service which provides protection from a wide range of diseases, including Tick Borne Encephalitis alongside malaria, hepatitis, rabies and yellow fever. We will be able to recommend what type of protection is best for you and it will be provided in either tablet form or as a vaccine.

We provide vaccine certificates for all administered vaccines including Yellow Fever. For more information and advice for specific countries and protection please contact us by phone.

Always leave sufficient time (6 - 8 weeks) before your travel plans to receive your vaccination. As always, your health and safety should be a top priority.

Making a Travel Vaccination Appointment

Booking for this service is currently made by telephoning either of our pharmacies in Rasharkin or Dunloy. 

At present Travel Vaccines are offered mainly in our Rasharkin pharmacy with our pharmacist, Martin McPeake who has completed specialist training in Travel Health.

Tel: 028 2957 1124 (Rasharkin)

You can also leave your details with the form at the bottom and Martin will be in touch to help or get started!

At your initial consultation, Martin will advise you on what you need to do in order to meet the requirements for safe travel to your particular destination, as well as General Travel Health Advice and self-care. It would also be helpful to have the following information for this appointment:

• Personal Details
• Country of destination plus travel itinerary
• Duration of travel
• Medication history
• Vaccination history

What is Tick Borne Encephalitis?

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection spread by tick bites. Ticks infected with the virus are found in parts of Europe (including the UK) and Asia. In the UK, the risk of getting it is very low.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is an infection spread mainly through tick bites. It can cause a flu-like illness or lead to more severe symptoms such as meningitis or brain inflammation.

If you are planning to spend long periods of time outdoors in forests or rural areas of countries where TBE infection is common, you should be aware of how to avoid tick bites.

The most effective way to prevent infection is by having the TBE vaccine, particularly if you are planning to do outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, camping, cycling, fishing orienteering or running in rural or forested areas.

When travelling in high risk areas, you should inspect your whole body daily for ticks, particularly after outdoor activities. Ticks should be removed as early as possible.

Vaccination Course Details

The course typically consists of three doses.

The second dose is given 1 – 3 months after the first.

The third dose is given 5 – 12 months after the second dose.

Tick Borne Encephalitis Vaccination: Important Information

Vaccine Timing: Travellers should get the first dose at least two months before travel. It is recommended to have it as early as possible.

You need two doses to be protected and you need to have received the second dose two weeks before travel.

Booster Shots: You need a booster to remain protected, the three years after the course is completed

Vaccine Administration: The Tick Borne Encephalitis vaccine is administered as an injection typically in the arm.

Duration of Protection: Upon completing the 3 dose course, you are protect from Tick Borne Encephalitis for three years. 

Side Effects: The Tick Borne Encephalitis vaccine can cause side effects for some individuals. These are mild typically in the form of headaches, nausea and tiredness.

Children: Suitable for children who are 12 months or older.

Additional Precautions: In addition to getting vaccinated, you need to take precautions to avoid tick bites.

Certificate Requirements: Some countries may require a yellow fever certificate for entry. Please note that your certificate becomes valid 10 days after receiving the yellow fever vaccine.

Risk of Contracting Yellow Fever: Tick borne encephalitis can cause serious complications, such as inflammation of the brain.

It is crucial to prioritise your health and take the necessary precautions by getting vaccinated against Tick borne encephalitis before traveling. Please consult with us for personalised advice and to address any specific concerns you may have.

Stay safe and enjoy your journey without the worry of Tick borne encephalitis.

Tips For Tick Bite Avoidances

Tick bite avoidance is crucial for preventing Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE). Here are some tips to help you practice tick bite prevention:

Wear Protective Clothing

Wear long sleeves, long pants, and tuck trousers into socks to minimise exposed skin.

Use Tick Repellent

Apply insect repellents containing DEET or permethrin to exposed skin and clothing.

Follow product instructions carefully.

Stay on Trails

Stick to marked trails and avoid walking through tall grasses and dense vegetation where ticks may be present.

Check for Ticks Regularly

Conduct thorough tick checks on your body and clothing after spending time outdoors.

Pay attention to areas like the hairline, behind the ears, and in the armpits.

Shower After Outdoor Activities

Take a shower and change into clean clothes after outdoor activities to wash away unattached ticks.

Educate Yourself

Learn about TBE risk in specific regions and take appropriate precautions. Consulting with travel specialists such as those at Kennedy's Pharmacy can help keep you informed.

By incorporating these practices into your outdoor routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of tick bites and lower the likelihood of contracting Tick-Borne Encephalitis alongside being vaccinated.

Prices Per Vaccine

Prices are accurate from December 2023 but may fluctuate depending on cost prices at the time of consultation.

Vaccine	Price
Cholera	£60
Diphtheria, tetanus and polio	£35
Hepatitis A	£65
Hepatitis B	£55
Hepatitis B Paediatric	£30
Hepatitis A and B combined	£79
Japanese Encephalitis	£95
Meningococcal ACWY	£60
Rabies	£85
Tick-borne encephalitis	£65
Typhoid	£35
Yellow Fever	£70

 

Anti-Malarial Tablets Priced per Prescription for duration of trip

Frequently Asked Questions 

What countries have a risk of tick borne encephalitis?

Tick-borne Encephalitis is usually found in Central and Eastern Europe.

High risk countries include:

• Poland
• Romania
• Lithuania
• some parts of Scandinavia
• Russia.

This is just a shortlist, please consult with us for specific guidance.

What is the risk of contracting tick borne encephalitis?

How far in advance of travel should I get my travel vaccine?

It is best to check with the pharmacist as to when your vaccine course should commence. It is best to contact Martin as soon as possible so that we can ensure you receive the best protection whilst you are travelling allowing you to concentrate on enjoying your trip.

Is there a cost for the travel vaccination service?

There is a £35 fee for your initial consultation and any additional cost will depend on your individual situation. The pharmacist will be able to advise.