About our Tick-borne Encephalitis news
Latest news on tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), a viral infection that affects the central nervous system. It is spread by the bite of infected ticks, which are found in parts of Europe and Asia, and some parts of the UK. Some people who get infected with TBE do not develop any symptoms, but others may have a serious illness that can cause meningitis, encephalitis, paralysis or even death.
There is no specific treatment for TBE, but there is a vaccine that can protect you if you are at risk of exposure. The vaccine is not available on the NHS, but you can get it from some travel clinics. You need to have two injections before travelling to a country where TBE is common, and a third injection for longer protection.
If you are travelling to an area where TBE is found, you should also take precautions to avoid tick bites, such as wearing long sleeves and trousers, using insect repellent and checking your skin and hair for ticks after being outdoors.