The Chikungunya Travel Vaccine: Everything You Need to Know Before You Fly
Over 100 countries in the past have identified Chikungunya cases. Chikungunya is a virus that is spread by infected mosquito bites. Recently, the availability of a new vaccine has gained a lot of public attention. It gives travelers and residents a chance to protect themselves from the virus.
What is the Chikungunya virus?
Chikungunya is a virus that spreads mainly through the bite of an infected mosquito. It is most common in tropical and subtropical parts of the world.
The most common symptoms are sudden fever and severe joint pain. Other symptoms may include headaches, muscle pain, swollen joints, and a rash. Some people may continue to have joint pain for months or even years after the infection.
Why get vaccinated?
You can lower your risk of getting infected with chikungunya by protecting yourself from mosquito bites. Getting the vaccine in addition can help to make sure you don’t get infected with the virus.
There is no specific medicine that cures chikungunya. Treatment mainly focusses on helping treat symptoms which can last for months after an infection. Because of this, preventing infection by avoiding mosquito bites and getting vaccinated when recommended is really the best way to protect you from getting sick.
Who should get the vaccine?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a chikungunya vaccine for people 12 years and older. The vaccine helps protect against illness caused by the chikungunya virus.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting the vaccine for people who live in or travel to areas where a chikungunya is spreading. Talk with your healthcare provider to find out if you should get the vaccine before your trip. You can also check your destination on the CDC Travelers' Health website to see if vaccine is recommended for you.
Who should not get the vaccine?
The vaccine might not be for some people based on their age, health, travel destination and risk of exposure. For example, people who are pregnant or have a weakened immune system should talk with their healthcare provider before getting the vaccine. This is because the vaccine contains a weakened form of the live virus. A weakened immune system may not safely control the virus in the vaccine which may cause illness. The chikungunya infection during pregnancy can be dangerous for the baby. A pregnant woman rarely passes the virus to her baby. However, the risk is much higher if the mother has the virus in her blood around the time of her delivery. In these cases, up to half of newborns may become infected and the infection can cause serious illness. If your area is not experiencing the virus, you may not need the vaccine.
How is the vaccine given?
The vaccine is given as one shot in a muscle. Some people may have pain on the site of injection, and tiredness which usually goes away after some time.
You should plan to get the vaccine at least 3 weeks before travel to give your body the opportunity to build full protection against the virus. It is not known how long immunity lasts so repeat vaccine for future travel is not recommended at this time.
Where can I get it?
Local pharmacies, travel clinics and other healthcare facilities may offer the chikungunya vaccine. Most travelers often get a travel health visit before their trip. When making your appointment, give your healthcare provider details about your trip, including where you are going and how long you will be there. Scheduling an appointment ahead can be very helpful. You can also contact your local or state health department to help you find locations that are offering the vaccine.
Summary
Chikungunya can cause severe joint pain, and symptoms may last for a long time after the infection. There is no cure for Chikungunya, but vaccination may lower the risk for people who may be exposed to the virus.
The benefits and risk of vaccination can vary based on your age, health, and travel destination. Before you travel, talk with your healthcare provider to decide the best option for you. Even if you are vaccinated, you should continue to protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and taking other steps to avoid mosquito bites.