Where is the tick vaccine administered? - briefly
The tick vaccine is delivered by injection, most commonly into the deltoid muscle or the thigh. A qualified medical professional administers it in a clinical environment.
Where is the tick vaccine administered? - in detail
The tick vaccine is delivered by injection, not by oral or topical routes. In veterinary practice the preferred site is the subcutaneous tissue over the lateral thorax, between the scapulae, where a small needle can be inserted at a shallow angle. An alternative location is the dorsal neck region, just caudal to the cervical vertebrae, used when the thoracic area is unsuitable. For intramuscular administration, the quadriceps femoris muscle of the hind limb is the standard choice; the needle is directed into the muscle belly, ensuring deep tissue delivery.
Vaccination protocols typically require a primary series of two doses spaced three to four weeks apart, followed by annual boosters. Each dose contains a specific volume (usually 0.5 ml for dogs) that must be administered in a single injection; re‑suspension of the vaccine before use is essential.
In human medicine, experimental tick‑borne disease vaccines are administered intramuscularly in the deltoid muscle of the upper arm, following the same dosage schedule as other adult vaccines.
Key points for proper administration:
- Use sterile technique; cleanse the injection site with an approved antiseptic.
- Select a site with minimal hair or fur to reduce contamination risk.
- Insert the needle at the recommended angle (subcutaneous: 45°–60°, intramuscular: 90°).
- Observe the animal or patient for a few minutes after injection to detect immediate adverse reactions.