Tick-Borne Encephalitis Infections in Switzerland

The Swiss Federal Office of Public Health has identified 6 cases of tick-borne encephalitis so far this year (2025). It is unusual for this number of infections to appear since April through August is when most people get infected. The current mild winter may initiate the tick season sooner than expected.

Advice

The risk for travellers is low, unless the traveller’s activities bring them into contact with ticks. Travellers in countries where this infection occurs should avoid tick habitats such as fields and forests where possible. Daily tick checks and prompt removal of an attached tick will help to reduce the risk of infection. Vaccination (only available in Europe) may be considered, especially if itineraries involve extensive hiking and camping in tick habitats.