Vaccine for Chikungunya

Chikungunya is a viral illness spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which bite most often during the daytime. It occurs in many tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.  Symptoms usually start 3 to 7 days after a bite from an infected mosquito and commonly include sudden fever, severe joint pain (especially in the hands, wrists, and ankles), fatigue, headache, muscle aches, rash, and sometimes nausea or vomiting. While most people recover within a week, joint pain can linger for weeks or even months, particularly in older adults or people with pre-existing joint issues. 

A chikungunya vaccine has now been approved for use in Canada and may be considered for travelers heading to regions where the virus is spreading. While the vaccine can be an important tool for reducing the risk of illness, it’s not suitable for everyone and has a small risk of causing painful joints, like a mild form of the disease. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) has provided guidance on the vaccine’s use which your travel pharmacist will use when evaluating your personal health, destination, and travel plans before making a recommendation. Since chikungunya is spread by mosquitoes, additional protection—like wearing long sleeves, using insect repellent, and staying in screened or air-conditioned accommodations—remains essential.