Tick Borne Encephalitis is a serious disease carried by tick bites in Europe. 1-10% of ticks in affected areas may harbour the virus, and whilst many sufferers have no effect, the disease can cause brain damage and death.

If you are travelling to Europe in the summer ( risk season is April to October ) and spending a month or more in the forests, vaccination may be recommended. The vaccine is not readily available in Australia, but in Europe the vaccine against TBE is the largest selling private vaccine. There have been 35 million doses prescribed since 1980. Austria has a national program for routine vaccination.

Dr Deb's clinics have access to limited supplies for Australians who may be at risk. The vaccine should be given at least 3 weeks before travel for at risk travellers

Further information about the vaccine including maps of where the risk occurs:

• FSME-IMMUN Fact Sheet
• CDC Fact Sheet