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Tick Borne Encephalitis is a viral infection that is spread via the bites of ticks. The disease can cause inflammation of the brain which can result in permanent brain damage and death.
Our recommended vaccines for the most common travel destinations outside of Europe includes Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio (DTP) vaccines. For travellers who are visiting the developing world on a regular basis or for prolonged periods of time, we would recommend considering hepatitis B vaccine. Cholera is worth considering for travellers visiting rural areas of developing countries. The vaccine against cholera (Dukoral) also reduces the risk of the most common form of traveller’s diarrhoea caused by E coli. Dukoral is an oral vaccine given in two doses one week apart.
Tick Borne Encephalitis is transmitted by the bite of infected ticks. It is therefore very important to be protected with a DEET based insect repellent. It is also important to take a tick remover device to remove any ticks that are on the skin
Initial symptoms of Tick Borne Encephalitis are like flu symptoms and can include a high temperature, headache and muscle pains. These symptoms usually last for up to eight days with most people making a recovery after this time. In certain individuals, the infection can spread to the brain leading to seizures, confusion and paralysis. There is no cure for Tick Borne Encephalitis and treatments aim to relieve symptoms until the infections passes.
The vaccination consists of three doses with the second dose given a month after the first and the third dose given five to twelve months after the second. An accelerated schedule can be given to individuals that need it, with the second dose given two weeks after the first which covers individuals for their upcoming trip. The third dose can then be given five to twelve months after the second.
