Products
TBE vaccine is commercially available as an injection suspension for adults and children (Encepur N, Encepur N Children, TBE-Immune CC, TBE-Immune Junior) and must be stored in a refrigerator. The vaccine has been licensed in many countries since 1979.
Ingredients
The vaccine contains TBE viruses of strain Karlsruhe K23 or Neudörfl (a locality in Austria) grown in chicken embryonic cells and inactivated with formaldehyde. In addition to aluminum hydroxide as an adjuvant, it contains residues from the manufacturing process such as antibiotics in small amounts and excipients that may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Effects
TBE vaccine (ATC J07BA01) protects against infection with TBE virus. According to the manufacturer, 96-99% of those vaccinated form antibodies.
Indications
Active immunization against early summer meningoencephalitis.
Dosage
According to the drug label. A total of three injections are required, given within a few months. A rapid schedule may also be used. Booster vaccination is now recommended by the FOPH only every 10 years (previously: 3 years). The vaccine is usually administered intramuscularly in the upper arm.
Contraindications
Vaccination is contraindicated in hypersensitivity and acute illness. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Concomitant administration of immunosuppressants may reduce vaccine efficacy. If another vaccination is given at the same time, a different body site should be selected for injection.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include pain at the injection site, malaise, headache, muscle and joint discomfort, flu-like symptoms, redness, swelling, and nausea. Rarely, allergic reactions occur. In isolated cases, central or peripheral nervous system disorders have been observed, such as cerebral or meningitis, paralysis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
