In 2022, only 19.6% of all people living in TBE risk areas throughout Germany were fully vaccinated against tick-borne encephalitis. This means that four out of five people are not sufficiently protected against the viral disease. There are major age differences in vaccination rates: vaccination coverage is highest among children and adolescents, and drops off among young adults. Of the TBE patients reported in 2024, 98% were not vaccinated or insufficiently vaccinated against TBE.

Ticks are the main transmitters of the TBE virus to humans. TBE often occurs without symptoms. However, it can cause severe inflammation of the meninges, brain and spinal cord. This can result in permanent neurological damage. Older people are at greater risk of serious illness than children.

In the past, the majority of TBE cases occurred in the months from May to October. However, tick bites and TBE can also occur at other times. Therefore, vaccination is possible at any time.

The vaccination offers safe and effective protection against TBE. It is recommended by the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) for people aged 1 year and older in the regions that have an increased risk of TBE. Accordingly, 183 rural and urban districts are currently designated as TBE risk areas. Vaccination should be completed before the tick season (April to October) if possible. A large proportion of TBE cases can be prevented by increasing vaccination rates.