Chikungunya Vaccine in Oxford & Banbury

Chikungunya Vaccine

What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by infected daytime-biting mosquitoes, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa, Asia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. In recent years, outbreaks have also been reported in Europe and the USA.

Symptoms include:

● Sudden high fever
● Severe joint pain (often in hands and feet)
● Headaches and muscle aches
● Skin rash
● Long-lasting fatigue

While most people recover in a few weeks, joint pain may persist for months – or even years –in some individuals.

Do I Need The Chikungunya Vaccine?

You may benefit from the Chikungunya vaccine if you are:

● Travelling to regions where the virus is prevalent (Asia, Africa, Central/South America, Caribbean)
● An adventure traveller or planning extended stays in endemic areas.
● Visiting friends and family in high-risk locations.
● Likely to be exposed to mosquitoes (e.g. rural areas or outdoor accommodation)

The vaccine is not available on the NHS and must be arranged privately.

AGE OF USE	DOSES REQUIRED	SCHEDULE	TIME BEFORE TRAVEL	BOOSTER REQUIRED
12–64 Years	1	One dose	Ideally 14 days before*	Not currently required

Available Vaccine Types

● IXCHIQ® – Live attenuated vaccine (ages 18–59)
● Vimkunya® – Virus-like particle vaccine (ages 12+)

How effective is the vaccine?

● IXCHIQ® – 98.9% protection 28 days after vaccination
● Vimkunya® – 98% response initially, ~86% at 6 months

Duration of protection is still being studied. Boosters are not currently required.

Preventing Chikungunya

In addition to vaccination, follow these mosquito-bite prevention measures:

● Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin
● Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers
● Sleep under mosquito nets
● Use insecticide plug-ins or coils
● Choose accommodation with air conditioning or screened windows
● Empty containers that collect standing water
● Take extra care during early morning and late afternoon when mosquitoes are most active