Tick-Borne Encephalitis

An often forgotten disease, Tick Borne Ecephalitis can be serious. We find this illness in Europe and across northern Asia

Why St Albans Travel Clinic (Markyate Pharmacy) is the Best Place for Your TBE Vaccine

If you’re heading to forests, trails, campsites, lakes, or rural villages in parts of Central, Eastern or Northern Europe or Northern Asia, a Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) vaccine is one of the smartest pre-trip decisions you can make. At St Albans Travel Clinic (Markyate Pharmacy), we deliver expert-led vaccination with local convenience—perfect for residents of St Albans, Markyate, Harpenden, Redbourn, Hemel Hempstead, Luton, Dunstable, and across Hertfordshire.

Prime High Street Location & Extended Hours

Find us at 40 High St, Markyate, St Albans, AL3 8PB. We’re open when it suits busy travellers:
Mon 9am–7pm | Tue 9am–7pm | Wed 9am–6pm | Thu 9am–7pm | Fri 9am–7pm | Sat Closed | Sun Closed
Need quick advice? Call 01582 840602. Searching “TBE vaccine near me St Albans” or “tick vaccine Markyate”? You’re in the right place.

Easy Online Booking, Phone Support & Transparent Pricing

Use our fast online booking (www.stalbanstravel.clinic/booking). Want to chat first? Phone us on 01582 840602. We keep costs clear—see www.stalbanstravel.clinic/pricing for up-to-date fees, dose schedules, and any accelerated-course supplements.

Clinician-Led Travel Health with Same-Day Appointments

Our experienced travel pharmacists provide risk assessments tailored to your route, season, and planned activities (hiking, camping, mountain biking, trail running, lake swimming, foraging). We can often arrange same-day or next-day appointments for last-minute trips.

Sister Site & Regional Coverage

Based closer to Bedford or traveling through? Check out our sister site at: https://bedfordtravelclinic.co.uk/ for additional appointment availability.

What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE)?

TBE is a viral infection that can inflame the brain and central nervous system. It’s carried by Ixodes ticks (hard ticks) living in woodlands, meadows, pastures, and forest edges. While not every tick carries the virus, exposure risk is meaningful in designated regions.

The TBE Virus: Where It’s Found in Europe & Asia

TBE risk is documented in parts of Austria, Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), Poland, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Denmark (Bornholm), Norway’s southern areas, parts of France and Italy (northeast), the Balkans, and into Russia, Mongolia, and parts of China. If your itinerary includes alpine huts, national parks, or rural stays in these regions, vaccination is strongly advised. For broad pre-trip guidance, see:

(And remember: Check out our sister site at: https://bedfordtravelclinic.co.uk/.)

How TBE Spreads: Ticks, Seasons & Unpasteurised Dairy

  • Tick bites: Highest risk spring to autumn when ticks are active.

  • Dairy route: Rarely, TBE transmits via unpasteurised milk or cheese from infected goats, sheep, or cows in risk zones.

  • Micro-habitats: Long grass, leaf litter, and animal trails increase encounter rates—especially for hikers, campers, and forestry workers.

Who’s Most at Risk (By Trip Type & Activities)

  • Hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers

  • Campers & caravanners near woods or meadows

  • Families on rural holidays (children often play at ground level)

  • Researchers, volunteers & outdoor workers

  • Adventure travellers exploring lakes, berry/ mushroom foraging

Symptoms & Stages of TBE You Should Recognise

Phase 1: Non-Specific Flu-Like Illness (7–14 days after bite)

  • Fever, headache, muscle aches

  • Fatigue, malaise

  • Sometimes nausea

These symptoms can settle before phase 2 begins.

Phase 2: Neurological Complications

  • High fever and severe headache

  • Neck stiffness, photophobia

  • Confusion, disorientation, balance problems

  • Seizures; in severe cases, paralysis or long-term neurological issues

Red-Flag Symptoms & When to Seek Urgent Care

If you or a travel companion develops severe headache, neck stiffness, rash with neurological signs, persistent vomiting, or any signs of confusion or seizures, seek urgent medical assessment. Early care improves outcomes. (For general NHS travel guidance, see the links above.)

TBE Vaccine Overview: Brands, Schedules & Rapid Options

In the UK, TBE vaccination is delivered with well-studied inactivated vaccines formulated for adults and children.

Standard Schedule (Adults & Children)

  • Dose 1: Day 0

  • Dose 2: 1–3 months after Dose 1 (establishes core protection)

  • Dose 3 (booster for long-term protection): 5–12 months after Dose 2 (often around month 6–12)

Children’s formulations follow similar intervals but may use age-specific doses. We’ll tailor the plan during your travel health assessment (book at www.stalbanstravel.clinic/booking).

Accelerated Schedules for Last-Minute Trips

If you’re leaving soon, accelerated schedules can establish protection faster, for example:

  • Dose 1 (Day 0) → Dose 2 (Day 14) → Dose 3 (5–12 months after Dose 2)
    Protection after the first two doses builds quickly, but completing Dose 3 is key for longer-term immunity.

Boosters, Longevity & Age-Related Considerations

  • After the primary course, boosters are typically due every 3–5 years depending on age and brand guidance.

  • Older travellers (e.g., 60+) may need more frequent boosters or closer adherence to the 3-year interval for optimal protection.

  • If your last dose was years ago, we’ll check your booster eligibility and align it with your travel dates. See prices at www.stalbanstravel.clinic/pricing.

  • And yes—Check out our sister site at: https://bedfordtravelclinic.co.uk/ for more appointment options.

How Well Does the TBE Vaccine Work? Clinical Evidence at a Glance

Protection Rates & Real-World Effectiveness

Multiple European studies show high effectiveness of TBE vaccines at reducing clinical disease. Real-world data from countries with national TBE programs demonstrate marked declines in cases following vaccination uptake, particularly in high-risk regions.

Breakthrough Infection vs. Severity Reduction

While no vaccine is 100% effective, breakthrough cases are uncommon; importantly, vaccination is associated with reduced severity and lower complication rates compared with unvaccinated individuals.

Public Health Guidance (NHS & UK Travel Advice)

Safety Profile: Common Side Effects & Rare Reactions

What’s Normal After the Jab

Most people experience mild, short-lived effects:

  • Soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site

  • Mild fever, headache, tiredness

  • General aches or low-grade flu-like symptoms

These usually settle within 48–72 hours. Keep well-hydrated and rest if needed.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Seek advice if you develop high fever, persistent or worsening symptoms beyond 72 hours, or any allergic signs (wheezing, facial swelling, widespread rash). Serious reactions are rare.

Who Should Delay or Avoid Vaccination

We’ll screen for:

  • Severe allergy to a previous TBE dose or vaccine components

  • Moderate/severe acute illness (postpone until recovered)

  • Pregnancy/breastfeeding: generally considered on a risk-benefit basis for essential travel—speak with our clinician
    Book a consultation at www.stalbanstravel.clinic/booking or call 01582 840602.

Bite-Avoidance: Practical Steps to Reduce Tick Exposure

Vaccination + sensible precautions give you the strongest protection.

Clothing, Repellents & Routine Tick Checks

  • Wear long sleeves and long trousers tucked into socks when in long grass or woods.

  • Use insect repellents (e.g., DEET-based) on exposed skin; treat clothing with a permethrin spray where appropriate.

  • Stay on paths; avoid brushing against vegetation.

  • Perform tick checks on yourself, children, and pets after outdoor activities—especially behind knees, groin, armpits, scalp, and waistband areas.

Removing Ticks Safely & Monitoring the Bite

  • Use a fine-tipped tick remover or tweezers; grasp close to the skin and pull straight out.

  • Clean the area and monitor for symptoms over the next few weeks.

  • If you feel unwell (fever, severe headache, neurological signs), seek medical assessment promptly.

Food Safety: Unpasteurised Milk & Dairy

In risk areas, avoid unpasteurised milk and fresh cheeses from unknown sources to reduce the (rare) food-borne TBE risk.

Planning Your Trip: Country-Specific Risk & Timing Your Doses

Popular TBE Regions & Typical Itineraries

  • Alps (Austria, Germany, Switzerland): hut-to-hut treks, mountain biking, wild-swimming in lakes

  • Baltics (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania): forest camping, bird-watching, coastal trails

  • Poland & Czechia: national parks, countryside homestays

  • Scandinavia (Sweden, Finland, Denmark/Bornholm): island hopping, summer cabins, canoe trips
    If you’re off to Asia (parts of Russia, Mongolia, China), ask us about the vaccination plan aligned to your time in remote areas.

Seasonal Timing & How Early to Start the Course

Ticks become active spring through autumn, peaking in late spring and early summer with a second peak in early autumn in some regions. Ideally, start your TBE course 2–3 months before travel to complete Dose 1 & 2 in time; we’ll schedule Dose 3 for long-term cover. Need it sooner? Ask about accelerated options.

Combining TBE with Other Travel Vaccines

We can plan your TBE alongside other vaccines (e.g., Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis, Influenza). See www.stalbanstravel.clinic/services and www.stalbanstravel.clinic/destinations. Heading further afield later (e.g., Thailand, India, Kenya, Brazil)? You might find these helpful:

(And yes—Check out our sister site at: https://bedfordtravelclinic.co.uk/.)

Local SEO Essentials: Serving St Albans, Markyate & Hertfordshire Travellers

Areas We Serve (Near Me Terms & Landmarks)

Searching “tick vaccine near me”, “TBE jab St Albans”, “Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine Hertfordshire” or “camping vaccine Markyate”? We regularly see travellers from St Albans city centre, Fleetville, Marshalswick, Harpenden, Redbourn, Hemel Hempstead, Luton, Dunstable, Wheathampstead, Sandridge, Bricket Wood, London Colney, and surrounding villages.

Parking, Bus Routes & Access Details

We’re on Markyate High Street (AL3 8PB). Public parking and bus links serve the High Street, making it easy to stop in for your TBE vaccination on the way to work or school runs.

Opening Hours & Contact Info

  • Monday: 9 am–7 pm

  • Tuesday: 9 am–7 pm

  • Wednesday: 9 am–6 pm

  • Thursday: 9 am–7 pm

  • Friday: 9 am–7 pm

  • Saturday: Closed

  • Sunday: Closed
    Phone: 01582 840602 • Address: 40 High St, Markyate, St Albans, AL3 8PB

Step-by-Step: How to Book Your TBE Vaccine in St Albans

  1. Book online in seconds: www.stalbanstravel.clinic/booking

  2. Choose your preferred day and time (evenings available Mon/Tue/Thu/Fri).

  3. Attend Markyate Pharmacy, 40 High St, AL3 8PB.

  4. Receive your TBE dose, personalised bite-prevention advice, and a plan for follow-up doses.

  5. We’ll set reminders so you complete the course on time before your trip.

(Travelling via Bedford, or need extra slots? Check out our sister site at: https://bedfordtravelclinic.co.uk/.)

Pricing, Receipts & Insurance Tips

  • Our transparent pricing is published here: www.stalbanstravel.clinic/pricing.

  • If your employer or insurer subsidises travel health, we can issue itemised receipts.

  • Students, researchers and volunteers: ask about multi-dose scheduling to align with funding or grant timelines.

For a complete overview of what we do: www.stalbanstravel.clinic/services and www.stalbanstravel.clinic/about-us.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who should get the Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine?
A: Anyone spending time outdoors in TBE-risk regions (forests, meadows, rural parks) in Europe or parts of Asia—especially hikers, campers, cyclists, wildlife watchers, and outdoor workers. Families with children exploring rural areas should strongly consider it.

Q2: When should I start the vaccine before travel?
A: Start 2–3 months before departure to complete Dose 1 & 2 comfortably. If you’re leaving sooner, ask us about accelerated schedules (e.g., Day 0 & Day 14). We’ll plan Dose 3 for long-term protection.

Q3: How long does protection last?
A: After the primary course, expect 3–5 years of protection (brand and age dependent). Boosters are recommended for ongoing risk; older travellers may require more frequent boosters. We’ll personalise your schedule.

Q4: Are there side effects?
A: Mostly mild and short-lived: injection-site soreness, mild fever, tiredness, or headache. Serious reactions are rare. If you develop high fever, persistent symptoms, or signs of allergy, contact us or seek medical care. See NHS guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/travel-vaccinations/.

Q5: Can I combine TBE with other travel vaccines?
A: Yes. We routinely plan TBE alongside Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Rabies, Influenza, and more—depending on your itinerary. Explore www.stalbanstravel.clinic/services and www.stalbanstravel.clinic/destinations.

Q6: Do I still need bite precautions if I’m vaccinated?
A: Absolutely. Vaccination isn’t a substitute for tick avoidance. Wear protective clothing, use repellents, and perform tick checks daily. Avoid unpasteurised dairy in risk areas.

Q7: Is there a rapid course for last-minute travel?
A: Yes—accelerated schedules can get you protected quicker. Book now at www.stalbanstravel.clinic/booking or call 01582 840602 to discuss the best timeline.

Q8: Do you offer reminders for my next doses?
A: Yes. We’ll set SMS/email reminders so you never miss Dose 2, Dose 3, or boosters.

Q9: Where exactly are you and when are you open?
A: Markyate Pharmacy, 40 High St, St Albans, AL3 8PB.
Hours: Mon 9–7, Tue 9–7, Wed 9–6, Thu 9–7, Fri 9–7, Sat/Sun closed. Call 01582 840602.

Q10: Do you have another clinic nearby?
A: Yes—Check out our sister site at: https://bedfordtravelclinic.co.uk/ for additional availability.

Conclusion & Next Steps

For outdoor adventures in Europe and parts of Asia, the Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is a vital layer of protection—especially for hikers, campers, and families exploring forests and meadows. At St Albans Travel Clinic (Markyate Pharmacy), we’ll tailor your TBE schedule, align it with your travel dates, and provide bite-avoidance strategies for complete peace of mind.

📍 Address: 40 High St, Markyate, St Albans, AL3 8PB
📞 Phone: 01582 840602
🕘 Hours: Mon 9–7 | Tue 9–7 | Wed 9–6 | Thu 9–7 | Fri 9–7 | Sat/Sun Closed

Cant Find A Suitable Appointment?

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01582 840602

hello@stalbanstravel.clinic

40 High St, Markyate, St Albans AL3 8PB

St AlbansTravel Clinic

By Markyate Pharmacy

St Albans's Leading
Travel Clinic

Markyate Pharmacy
40 High St,
Markyate,
St Albans,
AL3 8PB

01582 840602

hello@stalbanstravel.clinic

Book Appointment

Superintendent Pharmacist

Amar Kalia 2082911

GPhC Pharmacy

1032329

Fittotravel Source

NHS Travel Source

Travax Source

NaT Source

NHS Lothian Source

NHS Inform Source

FireClay House

St AlbansTravel Clinic

By Markyate Pharmacy

St Albans's Leading
Travel Clinic

Markyate Pharmacy
40 High St,
Markyate,
St Albans,
AL3 8PB

01582 840602

hello@stalbanstravel.clinic

Book Appointment

Superintendent Pharmacist

Amar Kalia 2082911

GPhC Pharmacy

1032329

Fittotravel Source

NHS Travel Source

Travax Source

NaT Source

NHS Lothian Source

NHS Inform Source

FireClay House

St AlbansTravel Clinic

By Markyate Pharmacy

St Albans's Leading
Travel Clinic

Markyate Pharmacy
40 High St,
Markyate,
St Albans,
AL3 8PB

01582 840602

hello@stalbanstravel.clinic

Book Appointment

Superintendent Pharmacist

Amar Kalia 2082911

GPhC Pharmacy

1032329

Fittotravel Source

NHS Travel Source

Travax Source

NaT Source

NHS Lothian Source

NHS Inform Source

FireClay House