Protection for outdoor travel in Europe

Planning forests, hiking or countryside visits abroad. Reduce tick bite risks and get protected with a timed tick borne vaccine.

  • Simple tick safety tips
  • Post vaccine support
  • Child and adult doses
South Ealing Pharmacy

Who should consider this vaccine

If you plan time in forests, farms or grassy parks in parts of Europe or Asia, you may be at risk of tick bites. You are most exposed during spring to autumn. The risk within the UK is currently very low.

Vaccination is advised when your trip includes hiking, camping, foraging, birdwatching or fieldwork in risk areas. The vaccine can be given from age one. We will tailor a schedule to your dates and destinations.

You usually start with two injections for short term cover. A third dose gives longer protection and is recommended for ongoing travel. An accelerated start is possible if you are leaving soon. Plan your first dose at least one month before travel.

You should still avoid tick bites. Wear long sleeves and trousers. Use repellent that contains DEET. Check your skin and clothes after time outdoors. Avoid raw milk and dairy in risk regions. These steps add strong protection alongside vaccination.

South Ealing Pharmacy

How the schedule works

For most travellers, two doses are given one to three months apart. A third dose follows five to twelve months later for longer cover. A faster two dose start can be arranged when needed. Boosters are usually offered every three to five years.

  • Start at least one month before travel
  • Adults and children from one year can receive it
  • Complete the course at least one week before exposure when possible
  • Keep future booster reminders if you visit risk areas regularly

Simple tick bite prevention

Small changes cut risk a lot. Pack light coloured clothing so ticks are easier to spot. Walk on clear paths where you can. Carry fine tipped tweezers in your kit for safe removal if you are bitten.

  • Use insect repellent on exposed skin
  • Tuck trousers into socks when walking through long grass
  • Do a full body check after activities
  • Remove ticks promptly and clean the area with antiseptic

Recommended

Travel Probiotic

We recommend purchasing Optibac Travel before your trip. It helps prevent tummy troubles on holiday by supporting healthy digestion. Pop into our store to buy.

  • Optibac
South Ealing Pharmacy

Travel with confidence from Ealing

Secure timely protection and practical advice for trips to risk areas. Friendly clinicians, clear plans and local care.

Book your appointment

How it Works

Trusted Healthcare in the Heart of ealing

  • Book your appointment

    Choose the service you need - travel vaccinations, flu jabs, medication reviews or more and book online, by phone or in person in under a minute.

  • Attend your consultation

    Enjoy a one-to-one consultation. Our experienced pharmacists will listen, answer every question and design the right care for you.

  • Receive treatment

    Leave with your prescriptions, vaccines or personalised health advice—all dispensed on the spot. We’ll make sure you have everything you need to feel confident and well.

Testimonials

What Our Patients Say

Booked for a hiking trip to Slovenia. Quick service, calm team and useful advice on clothing and repellents.

Brought my teenager for the first dose. Friendly staff, no rush and everything explained simply.

Professional and reassuring from start to finish. I felt prepared for our family walking holiday.

Testimonials

What Our Patients Say

Frequently Asked Questions

South Ealing Pharmacy
  • What is tick borne encephalitis?

    It is a virus spread by tick bites that can affect the brain. Most infections are mild but some become serious.

  • Do I need the vaccine for the UK?

    Routine vaccination for UK travel is not recommended because risk here is very low. Consider it for trips to affected parts of Europe or Asia.

  • How many doses do I need?

    You need at least two doses for short trips, with a third dose for longer lasting cover. A faster start is possible if you are leaving soon.

  • When should I book?

    Aim to have the first dose at least one month before you go. We can still help if you are travelling sooner.

  • What age can have it?

    Adults and children from one year old can be vaccinated. Your pharmacist will select the right dose for age.

  • Do I still need tick precautions?

    Yes. Use repellent, wear long clothing, stick to paths and check your skin after activities. Avoid unpasteurised dairy in risk areas.

  • Is it available on the NHS?

    This vaccine is a private travel vaccine, so you pay for it. Pharmacies with travel services provide it.

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