Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE)
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is present across most of Switzerland.
Swiss public health guidance recommends vaccination for individuals aged 6 years and over who may be exposed to ticks during outdoor activity in endemic areas, which includes much of the country below approximately 1,500 metres.
Risk is highest between:
Higher-risk activities include:
- Hiking and trekking
- Mountain biking
- Camping and outdoor stays
- Forestry work
- Foraging and rural recreation
Urban travel in cities such as Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Bern carries minimal risk.
TBE vaccination is available at our pharmacist-led travel clinic following an individual travel health assessment.
Accelerated dosing schedules may be suitable for some last-minute travellers depending on departure timing.
Altitude Illness
Altitude illness is an important consideration in Switzerland due to rapid ascent via cable cars and mountain transport.
Destinations where altitude may exceed 2,500–3,000 metres include:
- Zermatt region
- Jungfrau region
- Gornergrat
- High alpine ski areas
Travellers should be aware that symptoms can occur without gradual acclimatisation.
Preventative advice includes:
- Ascend gradually where possible
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid alcohol on arrival at altitude
Warning signs include:
- Breathlessness at rest
- Confusion
- Loss of coordination
- Persistent vomiting
Descent is the most important treatment for severe altitude illness.
Sun exposure is also significantly stronger at altitude, increasing the risk of sunburn and dehydration.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is present in the same tick habitats across Switzerland.
There is no vaccine for Lyme disease.
To reduce risk:
- Use insect repellent on exposed skin
- Wear long trousers in grassy or wooded areas
- Check skin daily after outdoor activity
- Remove ticks promptly using a tick removal tool
Rabies
Rabies risk in Switzerland is extremely low, but bat-associated lyssaviruses remain present.
Pre-exposure rabies vaccination may be considered for:
- Bat handlers
- Cavers
- Veterinarians
- Wildlife workers
If exposed:
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and clean water for 15 minutes
- Apply antiseptic if available
- Attend hospital or A&E immediately
Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) is hospital-only treatment and is not available in UK community pharmacies.
When to Book
We recommend booking your Switzerland travel health consultation four to six weeks before departure.
If TBE vaccination is required, early booking is advised. Accelerated schedules may still be possible depending on timing.
What We Can Supply
Vaccines provided during consultation are subject to current Patient Group Direction (PGD) coverage and stock availability at the time of your appointment.
During your visit we can:
- Assess your itinerary and travel health risks
- Provide personalised vaccination advice
- Administer appropriate travel vaccines
- Support insect bite prevention planning
- Refer to Independent Prescribers where required
Our pharmacist-led travel clinic supports travellers from Rochdale, Manchester and across Greater Manchester with Switzerland travel vaccinations and personalised travel health consultations.
Our clinic offers free on-site parking, refreshments during your visit and convenient access from across Greater Manchester.
