Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine

Generic name: tick-borne encephalitis vaccine
Brand name: TicoVac
Dosage form: intramuscular suspension (-)
Drug class: Viral vaccines

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Nov 13, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is tick-borne encephalitis vaccine?

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is used to prevent brain problems caused by tick bites (tick-borne encephalitis) in people 16 years and older.

Like any vaccine, tick-borne encephalitis vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine side effects

Keep track of any and all side effects you have after receiving this vaccine. When you receive a booster dose, you will need to tell the doctor if the previous shot caused any side effects.

Becoming infected with tick-borne encephalitis is much more dangerous to your health than receiving this vaccine. However, like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects but the risk of serious side effects is low.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of tick-borne encephalitis vaccine may include:

• pain and tenderness where the vaccine was given;

• headache;

• fever;

• restlessness; or

• weakness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1 800 822 7967.

Warnings

Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not receive this vaccine if you have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to any vaccine containing tick-borne encephalitis virus.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a weak immune system caused by disease or by taking certain medicines or receiving cancer treatments.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is this vaccine given?

This vaccine is injected into a muscle. You will receive this injection in a doctor's office or clinic setting.

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is given in a series of 3 shots. A booster dose (fourth dose) may be given at least 3 years after you complete the primary immunization series. Follow your doctor's instructions or the schedule recommended by the health department of the state you live in.

This vaccine is made from human plasma (part of the blood) and may contain viruses that may cause disease. Talk with your doctor if you have any questions.

Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccination:

0.5 mL IM each dose

Primary Vaccination Schedule:
-First dose: Day 0
-Second dose: 14 days to 3 months after the first dose
-Third dose: 5 to 12 months after the second dose

Comments:
-The primary immunization series should be completed at least 1 week before potential exposure to tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV).
-A booster dose (fourth dose) may be administered at least 3 years after completion of the primary immunization series if continued exposure or re-exposure to TBEV is expected.

Use: For active immunization to prevent tick-borne encephalitis

Usual Pediatric Dose for Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccination:

1 through 15 years: 0.25 mL IM each dose
16 years or older: 0.5 mL IM each dose

Primary Vaccination Schedule:
-First dose: Day 0
-Second dose:
---Aged 1 through 15 years: 1 to 3 months after the first dose
---Aged 16 years or older: 14 days to 3 months after the first dose
-Third dose: 5 to 12 months after the second dose

Comments:
-The primary immunization series should be completed at least 1 week before potential exposure to TBEV.
-A booster dose (fourth dose) may be administered at least 3 years after completion of the primary immunization series if continued exposure or re-exposure to TBEV is expected.

Use: For active immunization to prevent tick-borne encephalitis

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a booster dose or if you get behind schedule. The next dose should be given as soon as possible. There is no need to start over.

Be sure to receive all recommended doses of this vaccine. You may not be fully protected if you do not receive the full series.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this vaccine is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid before or after receiving this vaccine?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect tick-borne encephalitis vaccine?

Before receiving this vaccine, tell the doctor about all other vaccines you have recently received.

Also tell the doctor if you have recently received drugs or treatments that can weaken the immune system, including:

• steroids (oral, nasal, inhaled, or injectable);

• chemotherapy or radiation;

• medications to treat psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders; or

• medicines to treat or prevent organ transplant rejection.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect tick-borne encephalitis vaccine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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