A sharp rise in tick-borne encephalitis cases in 2018 now has the government advising TBE vaccination for all areas, replacing previous recommendations. According to ch.ch website – a service of the Confederation, cantons and communes - all or part of 17 cantons are now included in the advice but ‘no areas with ESME-infected ticks have been above an altitude of around 1000 m above sea level’ thus far. Lyme borreliosis is also present and is a risk in the tick-infected areas. (A map of risk areas for early summer meningo-encephalitis (ESME) is provided here.) Read more
Advice for travellers
A viral infection, tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) can cause fever, vomiting, cramps and paralysis, which can be prolonged. In rare instances, infection can be fatal. Travellers who spend time in regions where TBE is endemic – mainly forested areas of Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, Northern China, and Mongolia – may be at risk. The highest risk is during the warmer months from April to November, especially when hiking or camping in areas below 1500m. While safe and effective vaccines are available in Europe, none are licensed in Australia. However, vaccination can be obtained by doctors through a Special Access Scheme.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.