Chikungunya Vaccination Updates: Check Your Travel Plans As New Vaccines Are Approved in the UK, US, and EU Amid Safety Concerns

Written By: Paramita Sarkar

Paramita Sarkar

Story-telling has been one of my favourite passtimes and when it is about travel, every other activity seems to fall short. I started my journey as a freelancer close to two decades ago having worked with various online portals inclduding Sambhar Stories, Thirllophilia and so on. Down the years, life has rewarded me with experiences, only adding to my writing practice. Even though teaching has been my primary profession and passion, choosing the job of a travel journalist was not quite dilemmatic when selected by the esteemed editorial team of Travel And Tour World. Knowing and letting readers know about the quaint yet intriguing desintions across the globe through writing is something I always cherish and put in my best endeavour to.

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September 1, 2025 1:37 AM

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In 2025, two new chikungunya vaccines, IXCHIQ® and Vimkunya®, have been approved for use in the UK, the European Union, and the USA, marking a significant step in the fight against this mosquito-borne viral infection. Chikungunya, predominantly transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, causes severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, and rashes, with symptoms often lasting weeks or even months. While it is not typically fatal, the disease has become a growing global health concern. As more travelers and at-risk individuals are now able to access these vaccines, authorities are also closely monitoring reports of serious adverse events, especially among older populations.

What Are the New Vaccines and How Are They Used?

The two new chikungunya vaccines, IXCHIQ® and Vimkunya®, have been recently approved in key markets such as the UK and the EU. IXCHIQ®, a live vaccine, was approved for individuals aged 18 and older in the UK on 5 February 2025. The second vaccine, Vimkunya®, a virus-like particle vaccine, was approved for use in individuals aged 12 and older on 1 May 2025. Both vaccines have undergone rigorous reviews by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) and other regulatory bodies.

The IXCHIQ® vaccine has generated significant attention due to safety concerns arising in older adults. As part of post-market surveillance, health authorities have been investigating serious adverse events among individuals aged 60 and older. However, both vaccines were approved based on their potential to reduce the risk of chikungunya in regions where the disease is prevalent, such as parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Who Can Receive the Chikungunya Vaccines?

The vaccines have been approved for use in different age groups. IXCHIQ® is recommended for individuals aged 18 years and older, while Vimkunya® is suitable for those aged 12 years and older. In particular, the UK’s JCVI guidelines suggest the use of the vaccines for individuals who are at a higher risk of chikungunya infection, including travelers to areas with ongoing outbreaks, long-term travelers, and those working in laboratories with the virus.

The vaccines have been closely reviewed by health authorities, and in the case of IXCHIQ®, it has been recommended for individuals aged 18 to 59 years old who are immunocompetent. Vimkunya® has not been restricted for use in older adults as no safety concerns have been flagged in this group yet.

Why Are There Safety Concerns with the IXCHIQ® Vaccine?

The IXCHIQ® vaccine has been at the center of safety concerns following reports of serious adverse events in individuals aged 60 and older. In March 2024, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported five hospitalizations linked to cardiac and neurologic events in older individuals after receiving the vaccine. Further, in April 2025, the French National Authority for Health (HAS) temporarily suspended the vaccine’s use for individuals aged 65 and older, following reports of severe adverse reactions, including deaths.

In May 2025, the US FDA and CDC recommended a pause in the use of IXCHIQ® for individuals 60 years and older while the safety data was reviewed. A total of 17 serious adverse events, including two fatalities, were reported globally, leading to temporary restrictions in several countries. As of June 2025, the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) imposed a similar restriction on IXCHIQ® for individuals aged 65 and over, pending further safety reviews.

When Will These Vaccines Be Available and How Will They Be Administered?

The vaccines have already been approved for use in the UK, the EU, and the US. IXCHIQ® and Vimkunya® are available for administration in healthcare settings such as clinics, travel health services, and some pharmacies offering travel-related health advice. As the vaccines are rolled out, healthcare providers are expected to closely monitor their usage, particularly in older adults, due to the potential for adverse events.

Travelers heading to regions with active chikungunya outbreaks are encouraged to consult with healthcare professionals before their trip. The vaccines are available for those meeting the eligibility criteria, and health professionals will provide guidance on when vaccination is most appropriate based on personal health conditions and travel itineraries.

How Will These Vaccines Affect Global Travel and Health?

The introduction of these chikungunya vaccines is expected to have a significant impact on global travel, particularly for individuals heading to areas with ongoing outbreaks of the virus. Countries in the tropics and subtropics, where the Aedes mosquitoes are most prevalent, have been reporting rising cases of chikungunya in recent years. Travelers to these regions are urged to consider vaccination as part of their preventative health measures.

In addition to vaccination, travelers are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and staying in accommodations with proper mosquito control. With the availability of the vaccines, many individuals will have an added layer of protection against this debilitating illness.

What Are the Guidelines for Health Professionals?

Health professionals are advised to stay up to date with the latest recommendations on chikungunya vaccination, especially with respect to age-related restrictions and contraindications. The UK Health Security Agency and the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) provide detailed guidance on vaccination schedules, recommended age groups, and specific country-based travel advice.

In the case of travelers returning with suspected chikungunya infection, healthcare providers are instructed to urgently consult specialists and consider diagnostic testing. It is important for health professionals to maintain a strong understanding of regional outbreaks and advise patients accordingly, especially as more vaccines are introduced to the market.

What Should Travelers Do Before and After Vaccination?

Travelers are urged to check the UK Health Security Agency’s Country Information pages for specific vaccination recommendations and travel health advice before embarking on their trips. Pre-travel consultations with a healthcare provider can help determine the best preventive measures, including vaccinations and advice on mosquito bite prevention.

After vaccination, travelers should continue to take precautionary measures to avoid mosquito bites, particularly around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Insect repellent should be reapplied regularly, and travelers are encouraged to wear long sleeves and trousers when possible.

In conclusion, the approval of the IXCHIQ® and Vimkunya® vaccines marks a significant development in the fight against chikungunya. While safety concerns remain, particularly among older adults, these vaccines offer a critical tool in preventing the spread of this disease, especially in areas prone to outbreaks. With proper guidance and precautionary measures, travelers can better protect themselves against chikungunya while enjoying safer international travel.