Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccination

The TBE vaccine is recommended for travellers to areas where TBE is common, particularly in parts of Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, Russia, and parts of East and Southeast Asia. It’s also advised for people engaging in activities like hiking and camping in forested areas of TBE-endemic regions.

Two doses of the vaccine given 14 days apart provides around 90% protection. Therefore, two doses can be administered in travellers who do not have sufficient time before exposure for the conventional schedule. It is important that precautions are taken to prevent bites.

The protection offered by the TBE vaccine typically lasts for about 3 years. After completing the initial series, a booster dose is required for continued immunity.

Getting vaccinated before travelling is a key step in safeguarding your health, the health of those around you, and the public health of the communities you visit. For TBE, it is advisable to get the vaccine at least 4 weeks before departure. 

A consultation with our specialist travel nurse costs £20 per person for the first appointment and £10 for follow ups. The consultation is required to assess your travel plans and medical history and recommend vaccinations for your individual needs. A dose of the TBE vaccine costs £69, and 3 doses are required. The full course offers protection for 3 years.  

Please see our full price list for details and speak to our staff in clinics about customised price plans for groups, families or when you book your full course in advance. 

Injection site reactions-pain, swelling and redness.

Fever, nausea, headache and muscle ache can also occur, but are not as common.

You can get the TBE vaccine in one of our flagship clinics with locations in: 

• London: Victoria, Moorgate, London Bridge 

• Manchester 

• Hampshire: Winchester, Southampton 

• Hertfordshire: Hitchin 

• Sussex: Brighton & Hove, Worthing 

• Kent: Ashford 

You can also visit one of our local pharmacy partners by finding a clinic near you. 

Is TBE the same as Lyme disease? 

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is not the same as Lyme disease. TBE is caused by a virus and can lead to serious neurological complications like meningitis or encephalitis. In contrast, Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium and typically begins with a rash and flu-like symptoms, but can also affect the joints and nervous system if untreated. While both are spread by ticks, they differ in their causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention — notably, there is a vaccine for TBE, but not for Lyme disease.

What are symptoms of TBE?

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) often begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue. In more severe cases, it can progress to affect the nervous system, causing meningitis, encephalitis, or even paralysis.

What is the schedule for the TBE vaccine?

How often do you need a TBE booster?

A TBE booster is generally recommended every 3 to 5 years for those who continue to be at risk through travel or outdoor activities in endemic areas. 

Who is not able to have the TBE vaccine?

The TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) vaccine is generally safe, but it should not be given to anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to any of its ingredients. Vaccination should also be postponed in people who are seriously unwell with a fever. Caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with weakened immune systems, and they should consult a healthcare professional before getting vaccinated. 

Is the TBE vaccine free on the NHS?

The TBE (tick‑borne encephalitis) vaccine is not available for free on the NHS. While it’s recommended for people travelling to areas where TBE is common (like parts of central Europe or Russia), NHS doesn’t cover it—vaccination must be obtained privately at a specialist travel clinic such as CityDoc.

What additional precautions do I need to take to avoid TBE?

To reduce the risk of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), wear long sleeves and trousers (tucking them into socks), use insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and stay on clear paths, avoiding tall grass and undergrowth. Check yourself, children, and pets for ticks after outdoor activities, and remove any ticks promptly with tweezers. It’s also wise to avoid drinking unpasteurised dairy products in affected areas, as TBE can rarely spread through raw milk.

Written by Travel Health and Vaccination Lead Derek Evans

Edited on 21-07-2025