[Immunization against tick-borne encephalitis]

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Epidemiology

Context:

• Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a serious viral zoonosis with potential for severe neurological sequelae and mortality.
• No specific antiviral therapy is currently available for TBE.
• Active immunization through vaccination is the primary strategy for TBE prevention and control.

Purpose:

• To outline the importance and recommendations for TBE vaccination.
• To describe the available vaccination schedules and vaccine types in Switzerland.
• To summarize the safety and efficacy profile of TBE vaccines based on available evidence.

Summary:

• TBE vaccination is recommended for adults and children over 6 in endemic regions, with two inactivated vaccines available in Switzerland.
• The standard schedule involves three initial doses followed by a booster every 10 years.
• While controlled efficacy studies are lacking, indirect evidence suggests good protection and safety, with common side effects being local reactions and rare instances of systemic or severe adverse events.

Impact:

• Highlights the critical role of vaccination in managing TBE risk in endemic populations.
• Provides practical guidance on TBE vaccination schedules and safety considerations for healthcare providers and the public.
• Underscores the need for continued vigilance and potential further research into vaccine efficacy.