Dosing, Schedule and Administration Primary Vaccination Series

The vaccination dose and timing for the 3-dose primary TBE vaccine series vary by age (Box 2).

1–15 years: 3 doses (0.25 mL each) administered intramuscularly (IM) with the first 2 doses administered 1 to 3 months apart and the third dose administered 5 to 12 months after dose 2.

16 years and older: 3 doses (0.5 mL each) administered IM with the first 2 doses administered 14 days to 3 months apart and the third dose administered 5 to 12 months after dose 2.

For all age groups, the 3-dose primary immunization series should be completed at least 1 week before potential exposure to TBE virus. 

For persons (e.g., travelers) who cannot complete the 3-dose primary series, see section “Immunologic Response After an Incomplete Primary Series (1 or 2 Doses) in Adults and Children” of the ACIP Recommendations for additional information.

Booster Dose

For all age groups, a booster dose (i.e., fourth dose) can be administered at least 3 years after completion of the primary 3-dose TBE vaccine series if ongoing exposure or re-exposure to TBE virus is expected.

No ACIP recommendations are made on the need for subsequent booster doses.

1–15 years: 0.25 mL dose administered IM at ≥3 years after completion of primary series.

16 years and older: 0.5 mL dose administered IM at ≥3 years after completion of primary series.

There are currently no U.S. recommendations on the need for subsequent booster doses.