Chikungunya Vaccine
Chikungunya and your trip
Planning a trip to a region where chikungunya is circulating? Our travel health nurses can help you understand the risk and whether vaccination is suitable for you. Your destination, age and health all matter.
What Is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a viral illness spread by the Aedes species of mosquito, the same kind that transmits Zika and dengue viruses. After being bitten by an infected mosquito, a patient will typically start to experience symptoms of the disease within four to seven days. These symptoms can include:
- Sudden fever
- Joint pain, particularly in the hands, wrists, and ankles
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Rash
Although rarely fatal, Chikungunya can be a severely debilitating illness, with joint pain and swelling sometimes lingering for months or even years after the initial infection. The disease can be particularly severe in older adults and those with preexisting health conditions.
About the IXCHIQ vaccine
IXCHIQ is a live vaccine given as one injection. It is authorized in Canada from age 12, but that does not mean it is recommended for every traveller. Studies have shown a strong antibody response; how well it prevents illness and how long protection lasts are still being studied. Keep protecting yourself from mosquito bites after vaccination.
What Causes Chikungunya?
The Chikungunya viral infection is caused by an Alphavirus called the chikungunya virus. Two species of mosquitoes can become infected with the virus, including the Aedes albopictus species and the Aedes aegypti species. The virus is not transmitted directly between people, but when an infected person is bitten by a mosquito that is not infected with the virus, the infection can spread to another person when that mosquito bites an uninfected individual. Once infected, the virus will be present in the patient’s blood for up to one week (seven days) – this means that, even after the symptoms of the infection has cleared up, the patient will still be able to transmit the virus to a mosquito should they be bitten.
Who should consider IXCHIQ?
Canadian guidance suggests considering IXCHIQ for adults aged 18 to 64 at high risk of infection, such as during an outbreak. Our nurse will discuss the possible benefits and side effects with you. It is not routinely recommended for other travellers in this age group.
IXCHIQ is not recommended for people aged 65 or older because of safety concerns. If this applies to you, discuss your travel plans with us, especially if there is an outbreak. Guidance for ages 12 to 17 is still under review.
IXCHIQ must not be given during pregnancy or to people with a weakened immune system. Tell the nurse about your medical conditions, medications and allergies before vaccination.
Can chikungunya be serious?
Most people recover, but joint pain can last for months or longer. Serious complications are uncommon and are more likely in older adults, newborns and people with certain health conditions. If you develop a fever during or after your trip, seek medical advice and mention where you travelled.
How is chikungunya diagnosed?
Chikungunya can resemble dengue and other infections. A healthcare professional will ask about your symptoms and travel history and may arrange a blood test. The type of test depends on when your symptoms started.
Where is chikungunya a risk?
Chikungunya occurs in parts of Africa, Asia, the Americas and other regions. Risk changes with local outbreaks, so check the Government of Canada’s travel health advice for your destination before departure. Our nurse can review the latest recommendations with you.
Plan your travel consultation
Book a travel consultation to review your itinerary and the precautions that make sense for you. Our nurse can discuss vaccination, current outbreaks and ways to avoid mosquito bites.
Source: Canadian Immunization Guide.
