The TBE vaccination offers protection against a viral infection transmitted by ticks. This article provides information about this vaccine, detailing its function, who can benefit from it, and its safety profile.
Understanding Tick-Borne Encephalitis
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks, particularly Ixodes ricinus in Europe, and Ixodes persulcatus in Asia. The disease can manifest with a range of symptoms, beginning with a mild, flu-like illness that may include fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches. Some individuals may then develop a more severe second phase involving the central nervous system, leading to neurological complications such as encephalitis (brain inflammation) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). TBE is prevalent in specific geographical areas, primarily across temperate regions of Europe and Asia, extending from western Europe through Russia to parts of East Asia.
How the TBE Vaccine Works
The TBE vaccine functions by introducing an inactivated form of the Tick-Borne Encephalitis virus into the body. This inactivated virus cannot cause the disease because it cannot replicate. Upon vaccination, the immune system recognizes these viral components as foreign. In response, the immune system produces specific antibodies and memory cells. These antibodies are then prepared to neutralize the live TBE virus if a vaccinated individual is exposed, preventing the development of the disease or significantly reducing its severity.
Who Should Get Vaccinated
Vaccination against Tick-borne encephalitis is recommended for individuals who live in or plan to travel to TBE-endemic areas, particularly during the transmission season, which runs from spring through autumn. This includes tourists engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or cycling, as well as those whose occupations involve frequent exposure to forested or rural environments, such as forestry workers, farmers, and military personnel. A standard primary vaccination course consists of three doses. The second dose is administered 1 to 3 months after the first, and the third dose is given 5 to 12 months after the second, ensuring long-lasting protection. For continued immunity, booster doses are recommended every 3 to 5 years, depending on the specific vaccine product and age.
TBE Vaccine Safety and Side Effects
The TBE vaccine is well-tolerated, with most reported side effects being mild and temporary. Common reactions include localized pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and a low-grade fever, which typically resolve within a day or two. More serious adverse reactions are rare, such as severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). For most individuals, the protective benefits of the TBE vaccine against a potentially severe neurological illness outweigh these minimal risks. Individuals with a history of a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the TBE vaccine or any of its components should consult a healthcare provider regarding contraindications.
References
World Health Organization. (n.d.). _Tick-borne encephalitis_. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tick-borne-encephalitis
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). _Tickborne Encephalitis_. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncezid/dvbd/tbe/index.html
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (n.d.). _Tick-borne encephalitis – Factsheet for health professionals_. Retrieved from https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/tick-borne-encephalitis/facts/factsheet-health-professionals
National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC). (n.d.). _Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine_. Retrieved from https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/vaccine/tbe
European Medicines Agency. (n.d.). _TicoVac (tick-borne encephalitis vaccine)_. Retrieved from https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/ticovac