Travel health
Chikungunya
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral infection that causes fever and severe joint pain. Two single-dose vaccines (Vimkunya and IXCHIQ) are now available in the UK — which one, if any, is right for you depends mainly on your age and health.
Overview
Chikungunya is caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which bite mainly during the day. Symptoms typically appear 3–7 days after being bitten and include sudden onset of fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. While most people recover within a week, joint pain can persist for months or even years in some cases. Severe complications are rare but can occur, especially in older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
Risk areas
Chikungunya is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, South-East Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and the Americas. Recent outbreaks have been reported in the Caribbean, Central, and South America. The virus is primarily found in urban and suburban areas where Aedes mosquitoes are common.
Risk for travellers
Travellers to endemic regions are at risk of contracting chikungunya, especially if they engage in outdoor activities during the day when Aedes mosquitoes bite. The risk is higher in areas with ongoing outbreaks and on longer or repeated trips. Preventive measures include using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in accommodation with air conditioning or window and door screens.
Signs & symptoms
Fever
Severe joint pain
Headache
Muscle pain
Joint swelling
Rash
Chikungunya vaccines: Vimkunya vs IXCHIQ
Two single-dose chikungunya vaccines are now licensed in the UK. They may be considered for travellers to areas with active outbreaks or recent transmission, for longer or frequent trips to risk areas, and for laboratory staff who handle the virus. Which one (if any) is suitable depends mainly on your age and health — we follow current UK (JCVI/MHRA) guidance and confirm this with you.
Vimkunya
Bavarian Nordic
Type
Virus-like particle (non-live)
Licensed age
12 years and over
Course
Single dose
A newer, non-live vaccine with no safety signal reported to date. It is currently the preferred option where suitable, and the only one of the two licensed from age 12.
IXCHIQ
Valneva
Type
Live-attenuated
Licensed age
Adults 18–59
Course
Single dose
A live vaccine. Following a UK safety review it is currently restricted to immunocompetent adults aged 18–59 — it should not be given to people aged 60 or over, those who are immunosuppressed, or anyone with a thymus disorder.
Both are given as a single dose, and a vaccine does not replace mosquito-bite avoidance — which remains essential. Suitability, availability and timing are assessed individually at your appointment, in line with current UK guidance (JCVI, MHRA and NaTHNaC/TravelHealthPro).
Bite avoidance
Spread by daytime mosquito bites
Chikungunya is spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which bite mainly during the day. Avoiding mosquito bites is a key part of your protection. Daytime bite protection matters: use 40–50% DEET repellent, cover up and keep bites off from morning through to dusk.
FAQ
Chikungunya — frequently asked questions
Need protection against Chikungunya?
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Trusted resources
Authoritative guidance on Chikungunya from leading public health bodies.
