When is a vaccine against ticks given to children? - briefly
A tick‑preventive vaccine is administered to children typically aged five years and older, with the first dose given before the start of the tick‑activity season and a booster 2–4 weeks later. The schedule may be repeated annually to maintain protection.
When is a vaccine against ticks given to children? - in detail
The pediatric tick‑borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine is administered to children who live in or travel to endemic regions where Ixodes ticks transmit the virus. Immunisation is scheduled to provide protection before the start of the tick activity season, typically in spring.
Standard dosing regimen
- First dose: given at age 12 months or older, after the child has completed the basic immunisation series for other diseases.
- Second dose: administered 1–3 months after the first injection to establish primary immunity.
- Booster dose: given 5–6 years after the second dose to maintain protective antibody levels.
- Subsequent boosters: recommended every 3–5 years, depending on local epidemiology and serological monitoring.
Factors influencing timing
- Geographic risk: regions with high TBE incidence (e.g., Central and Eastern Europe, Baltic states) require earlier initiation of the schedule.
- Seasonal exposure: vaccination should be completed at least 2 weeks before the onset of the tick season to allow sufficient antibody development.
- Individual health: children with immunodeficiency, severe allergic reactions to previous vaccine components, or acute febrile illness should defer vaccination until the condition resolves.
Safety and contraindications
- Common adverse events: mild pain at the injection site, low‑grade fever, and transient fatigue.
- Contraindicated in: known hypersensitivity to any vaccine ingredient, severe immunosuppression, or previous anaphylactic reaction to a TBE vaccine dose.
Implementation recommendations
- Pediatric practitioners should assess travel plans and residence in endemic zones during routine visits.
- Parents should be advised to complete the full series before the first expected tick exposure of the year.
- Health authorities may provide catch‑up schedules for children who missed early doses, adjusting intervals to achieve timely protection.
By adhering to the outlined schedule and considering regional risk factors, children receive optimal defense against tick‑borne encephalitis before exposure to infected ticks.