Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine for Adults (TicoVac 0.5 ml) and Children (TicoVac 0.25 ml)

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a serious natural focal viral infection caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). The disease affects the brain, meninges, or peripheral nerves. TBE is one of the most significant viral infections of the human central nervous system and is known for its long-term complications, which in some cases may lead to permanent disability. The disease is prevalent in many parts of the world. TBE was first described in 1927 in Austria, and the virus (TBEV) was first isolated in 1937 in the former Soviet Union.

According to the Lithuanian Centre for Communicable Diseases and AIDS (ULAC), the mortality rate of TBE ranges from 0.5% to 4%. Approximately one-third of individuals who contract TBE do not fully recover. The most common long-term effects include difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, chronic headaches, increased sensitivity, and behavioral changes. Less frequently, patients may experience paresis (partial paralysis).

Vaccination is the most effective method of preventing TBE. TBE vaccines can be administered to children aged 1 year and older. There are two vaccination schedules: the standard and the accelerated schedule. In the standard schedule, the first two doses are administered 1–3 months apart. The timing of the third and booster doses may vary depending on the manufacturer’s instructions and is specified in the vaccine's product information leaflet. After completing the full primary vaccination course (three doses), approximately 97% of vaccinated individuals develop protective antibody levels.