Chikungunya Vaccine

Key points

  • A virus-like particle chikungunya vaccine (called VIMKUNYA) is available in the United States.
  • Some travelers at higher risk of exposure to chikungunya virus should consider getting vaccinated before their trip.
  • Talk to your healthcare provider if traveling to an area with risk for chikungunya.
Gloved hands placing a bandaid on an arm

What's available

The virus-like particle chikungunya vaccine (called VIMKUNYA) is available in the United States. The vaccine uses a molecule that resembles the virus closely enough to prompt an immune response to help prevent illness. This vaccine does not use a live or weakened form of the chikungunya virus.

Recommendations

  • Approved for use in people 12 years and older
  • Recommended for adolescents and adults traveling to an area with a chikungunya outbreak. Also recommended for laboratory workers who might be exposed to the virus.
  • Considered for adolescents and adults traveling or moving to an area with elevated risk for U.S. travelers if planning to stay for an extended period of time (for example, 6 months or more).
  • Single dose vaccine

Keep in mind

  • People with a history of a severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine should not get vaccinated.
  • Pregnant women should discuss with a healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of the vaccine, compared to the risk of chikungunya illness. People with weakened immune systems might not get as much protection from vaccination.
For Health Care Providers Chikungunya Vaccine Information for Health Care Providers

What to consider before traveling

If traveling to an area with risk for chikungunya, talk to your healthcare provider about these factors to help with your decision on vaccination:

  • Symptoms of chikungunya and possible long-term joint problems after infection
  • Benefits and possible side effects of vaccination
  • Outbreaks or ongoing disease activity at your destination
  • Duration of travel or residence, including likelihood of future travel to an area with chikungunya
  • Your age (for example, older than 65 years)
  • Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Underlying medical conditions that may increase your risk for severe disease (such as diabetes or heart disease)
  • Conditions that may increase the risk for long-term joint pain after infection (such as joint disease)
  • Your personal preferences for vaccination based on these factors
Print
Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)