What is Chikungunya?
This viral illness spreads to people from mosquito bites and the name comes from the Kimakonde language in Tanzania meaning to “become contorted.” Early symptoms of chikungunya include high fever, rash, and severe joint pain. Up to 50% of people infected will experience prolonged fatigue and joint pain often affecting the hands and feet. Sadly, for some people symptoms can last months or years impacting daily activities and livelihood.
Similar to dengue fever and zika, chikungunya is spread from the Aedes mosquito species, which has adapted to live in urban areas and often bites during the daytime.
When outbreaks occur, the illness spreads rapidly within communities, with up to 75% of a population becoming ill. People of any age can be infected, although infections tend to be more severe in those with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and those 65 years and older. A blood sample sent to a laboratory is needed to confirm infection, and because test equipment is not readily available in many places of the world, many cases likely go unreported.
Where is Chikungunya Found?
Many tropical and subtropical countries are at risk for chikungunya due to the presence of the Aedes mosquito. Owing to its wide geographic distribution, chikungunya infections have been reported in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Most outbreaks occur during the rainy season and cases typically decrease during the dry season.
How Do I Protect Myself Against Infection?
Because there is no specific treatment for chikungunya infection, it’s best to avoid infection altogether with vaccination and mosquito bite avoidance.
Patients 12 years and older may be recommended the chikungunya vaccine before international travel. Individuals traveling to a country with a current chikungunya outbreak or visiting an at-risk country for more than 6 months are highest priority for vaccination. Additionally, people 65 years and older, especially those with certain health conditions, and with plans to stay more than 2 weeks in an area with past outbreaks should consider vaccination.
Vimkunya Chikungunya Vaccine
The chikungunya vaccine, brand name Vimkunya, received FDA approval for use in individuals 12 years and older in United States, in February 2025. Currently, no other vaccine is available to prevent chikungunya illness in the US. The vaccine is administered as a single dose in the deltoid muscle of the arm.
What Else Should I Know About the Vimkunya Vaccine?
Like all vaccines, some mild side effects after vaccination including arm pain, headache, and muscle pain.
Where Can I Find a Cholera Fever Vaccine Near Me?
JmBee Travel Health Clinic keeps hard-to-find vaccines like Chikungunya available on-hand. So schedule your visit online at any of our Massachusetts locations; or call the office nearest you for an appointment.
Other Travel Vaccines to Consider
If you are visiting a country or region where chikungunya infection is a concern, chances are, other travel vaccines and malaria medication are recommended. Immunizations to protect against other mosquito diseases include Yellow Fever and Japanese Encephalitis. Food and water safety is also a top priority for travelers and the Hepatitis A and Typhoid Fever vaccines can keep you safe.