TBE Vaccine Side Effects: What You Need to Know
The tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine protects against a serious brain infection spread by ticks. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, resolving within a few days.
Things worth knowing about "Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine side effects"
The tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine protects against a serious brain infection spread by ticks. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, resolving within a few days.
What is the TBE Vaccine?
The tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine protects against a viral infection transmitted by tick bites that can cause inflammation of the brain and its surrounding membranes. The vaccine contains inactivated TBE viruses that stimulate the immune system to produce protective antibodies. It is strongly recommended in endemic regions across Central Europe and parts of Asia.
Common Side Effects of the TBE Vaccine
Most side effects of the TBE vaccine are mild and short-lived, typically resolving within one to three days after vaccination.
Local Reactions at the Injection Site
- Redness of the skin at or around the injection site
- Swelling and tenderness
- Pain or a warm sensation at the injection site
General Systemic Symptoms
- Fatigue and general malaise
- Headache
- Mild fever or sensation of feverishness
- Muscle and joint aches
- Nausea
Side Effects in Children
In children under the age of 3, the TBE vaccine may cause fever more frequently than in adults. Parents should monitor their child after vaccination and consult a doctor if high fever persists. In general, local and systemic reactions in children are comparable to those in adults and are manageable.
Rare and Serious Side Effects
Rare but serious adverse reactions may include:
- Allergic reactions: In very rare cases (fewer than 1 in 10,000 vaccinees), a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur. For this reason, a 15 to 30-minute observation period is recommended after each vaccination.
- Neurological symptoms: Extremely rarely, tingling sensations, numbness, or temporary nerve irritation have been reported.
- Lymph node swelling near the vaccination site
When to Seek Medical Attention
Medical help should be sought immediately if any of the following occur after vaccination:
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or significant facial swelling
- High fever lasting more than a few days or exceeding 39 °C (102 °F)
- Severe pain or swelling at the injection site that does not improve
- Unusual neurological symptoms such as severe headache, neck stiffness, or altered consciousness
Contraindications and Precautions
The TBE vaccine should not be administered in cases of:
- Known allergy to vaccine components such as hen egg protein, neomycin, or formaldehyde
- Acute severe illness or high fever at the time of vaccination
- Pregnancy: Vaccination during pregnancy should only be considered after careful risk-benefit assessment
Vaccination Schedule and Practical Tips
The basic TBE immunisation course consists of three doses: the second dose is given 1 to 3 months after the first, and the third dose 5 to 12 months later. Booster doses are recommended every 3 to 5 years, depending on age and the specific vaccine used. To minimise adverse reactions, it is advisable to avoid intense physical exercise and alcohol in the days following vaccination.
References
- Robert Koch Institute (RKI): Recommendations of the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) regarding TBE vaccination. www.rki.de
- World Health Organization (WHO): Vaccines and vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis. WHO Technical Report, 2011.
- European Medicines Agency (EMA): Product information for approved TBE vaccines (FSME-IMMUN, Encepur). www.ema.europa.eu
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