A brief history
Chikungunya virus was first identified in Tanzania in 1952. Its name comes from the Kimakonde language and refers to the bent posture caused by severe joint pain. Outbreaks have become more widespread since 2004, affecting parts of Africa, Asia and the Americas, with occasional local outbreaks in Europe.
How does it spread?
Infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes spread the virus through their bites. These mosquitoes mainly bite during daylight. A mosquito can pick up the virus from an infected person and pass it to someone else through a later bite.
Use insect repellent and covering clothing during the day as well as at night. Screens and air-conditioned rooms help reduce exposure. Vaccination does not replace bite prevention.
Symptoms and possible complications
Symptoms commonly include a sudden fever and severe joint pain, alongside headache, muscle aches, rash and fatigue. The initial illness usually settles within one to two weeks, but joint pain can persist for months or years and interfere with everyday activities.
Serious illness is uncommon, but complications can affect the eyes, heart or nervous system. Newborn babies and older people with existing medical conditions are more vulnerable. Seek medical advice if you develop fever during or after travel, and tell the clinician where you have been: other infections can cause similar symptoms.
How long does protection last?
Recovery from natural infection is thought to provide lasting immunity. Lifelong protection from vaccination has not been established. For both IXCHIQ and Vimkunya, the need for revaccination is not yet known; a single-dose schedule does not mean that lifelong immunity has been proven.
Where it may be relevant
- Travellers visiting an area with a current outbreak or elevated chikungunya risk
- People whose itinerary or activities create substantial daytime mosquito exposure
- Long-stay travellers where individual risk justifies vaccination
Dose schedules
The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.
Standard schedule
Eligible adults
The need for booster doses has not yet been established.
Who may be eligible
- Adults for whom the licensed product is age-appropriate and whose itinerary creates a meaningful risk
- Travellers assessed after destination, age, health and departure timing are reviewed
Who may not be eligible
- Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
- People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually
- Age restrictions and precautions vary by product and must be checked before supply
Potential side effects
- Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
- Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
- Feeling faint around the time of vaccination
Important risks and precautions
- A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
- Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
- The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment
Clinical references