Posted by Dr Michelle Wright
Welcome to Health Matters. I’m Dr Michelle Wright, back with you to discuss important topics that affect your health and well-being.
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
With the arrival of spring, you might’ve noticed pharmacies promoting vaccinations against tick-borne infections. That’s no coincidence. March through April is considered the ideal time to get protected, and this year, the push is as strong as ever – thanks to new research and updated guidelines last year from the Federal Office of Public Health.
What two tick-borne illnesses are found in Switzerland?
Switzerland is home to two important tick-borne illnesses that can impact humans. Lyme disease, caused by bacteria, is treatable with antibiotics if caught early. But tick-borne encephalitis is another story. It’s a viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system, and unlike Lyme disease, there’s no specific treatment once symptoms begin.
Each year, around 300 cases of tick-borne encephalitis are reported in Switzerland. That might sound small, but when you consider that between 1 to 6% of ticks here carry the virus – and that a single bite is enough to transmit it – the risks are very real.
What are the new vaccination recommendations?
The good news? We have a vaccine that’s both effective and widely recommended.
Previously, health authorities advised vaccination for everyone over age 6 living in or regularly visiting risk zones – which, at the time, excluded the cantons of Geneva and Ticino. But since last year, that’s changed. Geneva is now considered a risk area, meaning only Ticino is currently excluded. And another important update: again since last year, the vaccine is now recommended for children as young as 3 years old.
Why the change?
Recent studies showed that younger kids are just as vulnerable as older ones to both mild and severe symptoms.
The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine is given in three doses over several months, followed by booster shots roughly every ten years. And it’s covered by compulsory health insurance in Switzerland – though your deductible and co-payments may apply. You can get vaccinated at many pharmacies or through your GP or paediatrician.
What else can you do to protect yourself?
But vaccines aren’t the only line of defense.
Ticks thrive in warm, humid conditions – which we’re seeing plenty of this spring – and they love to hide in tall grasses, forests, and even city parks. So, when heading outdoors, wear long trousers, socks, and closed shoes. Apply tick repellent. And always check yourself, your kids, and your pets for ticks after spending time outside. Focus on warm, moist areas like behind the knees, under the arms, and around the scalp or ears.
If you do find a tick, remove it as quickly as possible. Many pharmacies now offer tick-removal services or sell specialised tools for safe removal. Afterwards, clean the bite area well and watch for signs of infection like redness or a rash. If in doubt, contact your doctor.
So, as we get back to nature this season, let’s not forget those tiny hitchhikers that might be waiting out there. Prevention, awareness, and vaccination are your best tools for staying safe.
