Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a potentially severe viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected ticks or, less commonly, via unpasteurised dairy products from infected animals. While TBE is not currently endemic in the UK, it is a growing concern for those travelling to affected areas in Europe, parts of Asia, and Russia. At Seaton Pharmacy, we are dedicated to raising awareness about this disease and providing the necessary protection, including the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine, to ensure your health and safety.

What Is Tick-Borne Encephalitis?

Tick-borne encephalitis is caused by the TBE virus, which affects the central nervous system. The disease progresses in two stages:

Initial Stage: Symptoms often resemble those of the flu, including fever, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, and nausea.

Neurological Stage: If the virus invades the brain or spinal cord, it can cause severe complications such as meningitis (inflammation of the brain’s membranes), encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), or meningoencephalitis (a combination of the two). Symptoms in this stage may include confusion, seizures, difficulty speaking, and even long-term neurological damage.

The severity of the disease varies by individual, but approximately 10-20% of those infected experience long-term health issues, including cognitive impairment and chronic headaches. In rare cases, TBE can be fatal.

Where Is Tick-Borne Encephalitis Found?

TBE is most commonly reported in:

• Europe: Central, Eastern, and Northern Europe, particularly in forested and rural areas.
• Asia: Parts of Siberia, Mongolia, China, and Japan.
• Russia: Large swathes of the country are endemic for TBE.

Peak transmission occurs during tick activity, typically from spring to late autumn. Travellers engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or forestry work in these areas are at the greatest risk.

Prevention of Tick-Borne Encephalitis: Vaccination

Preventing TBE requires a combination of strategies, and Seaton Pharmacy is here to help you every step of the way.

The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is the most effective way to protect against TBE. It is recommended for anyone travelling to high-risk areas, particularly if outdoor activities are planned. The vaccine is administered in a series of three doses over several months, but an accelerated schedule is available if necessary. Booster doses are required every three to five years to maintain immunity.

At Seaton Pharmacy, we offer pre-travel consultations to assess your risk and recommend vaccination if needed. Our experienced pharmacists ensure a smooth and stress-free vaccination process.

Tick Bite Avoidance

While the vaccine is highly effective, additional precautions should be taken to reduce the risk of tick bites:

• Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers, preferably light-coloured, to spot ticks more easily.
• Use insect repellents containing DEET or permethrin on skin and clothing.
• Stay on marked trails and avoid tall grass or dense vegetation where ticks are commonly found.

Check your body regularly for ticks during and after outdoor activities, paying attention to hidden areas such as the scalp, groin, armpits, and behind the knees.

Tick Removal

If you find a tick attached to your skin, it is crucial to remove it promptly and correctly:

• Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
• Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin.
• Clean the bite area and your hands with antiseptic or soap and water.
• Monitor the bite site for any signs of redness, swelling, or rash.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine: Your Trusted Defence

The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is an essential tool for travellers heading to endemic regions. At Seaton Pharmacy, we provide expert advice to ensure you receive the appropriate vaccinations for your travel plans.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

The vaccine is recommended for:

• Travellers to high-risk areas engaging in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, or biking.
• Individuals working in forestry or agriculture in endemic regions.
• Long-term visitors or expatriates residing in areas with a high incidence of TBE.

How Does the Vaccine Work?

The vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies against the TBE virus. While it does not guarantee 100% protection, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness.

At Seaton Pharmacy, our travel health specialists will guide you through the vaccination process, ensuring you are fully protected before your trip.

Treatment of Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment for TBE. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and providing supportive care, particularly during the neurological phase of the illness. This may include:

• Pain relief for headaches and muscle aches.
• Hospitalisation in severe cases for close monitoring and intravenous fluids.
• Rehabilitation therapy for those with long-term neurological complications.

Early detection is critical to minimising the impact of the disease. If you develop symptoms after a tick bite or suspect you may have been exposed to TBE, seek medical attention immediately.

Why Choose Seaton Pharmacy for Your Travel Health Needs?

At Seaton Pharmacy, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive travel health services tailored to your needs. From the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine to advice on tick bite prevention, our team is committed to keeping you safe during your travels.

Personalised Consultations: Our pharmacists take the time to understand your travel itinerary, health history, and specific risks, offering tailored advice and solutions.

Convenient Services: With flexible appointment scheduling and a friendly team, we make the vaccination process easy and hassle-free.

Trusted Expertise: As healthcare professionals, we stay up-to-date with the latest guidance on TBE and other travel-related illnesses to ensure you receive the best care.

Plan Ahead with Seaton Pharmacy

If you are planning to visit an area where tick-borne encephalitis is a concern, don’t leave your health to chance. The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is your first line of defence against this potentially serious disease. Book a travel consultation at Seaton Pharmacy today and let us help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Tick-borne encephalitis may be a growing threat, but with proper precautions and expert guidance from Seaton Pharmacy, you can travel with confidence. Contact us to learn more about our travel health services or to book your vaccination appointment.