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    Chikungunya (Ixchiq)

    Protects against chikungunya, a viral infection with long-lasting joint problems.

    Protects against

    Chikungunya (viral infection with long-lasting joint problems)

    Validity

    Duration of protection still being studied (at least 1 year)

    Schedule

    Single dose

    Side effects

    Usually mild

    About Chikungunya

    Chikungunya is a viral infection transmitted by the same mosquitoes as dengue. The characteristic symptom is severe joint pain that can last for months to years. The name means 'that which bends up' due to the bent posture from the pain.

    How is it transmitted?

    The virus is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which are most active during the day in urban and semi-urban areas.

    Symptoms

    Sudden high fever
    Severe joint pain (especially wrists, ankles, fingers)
    Joint swelling
    Muscle pain
    Headache
    Skin rash

    Possible complications

    • Chronic joint pain (can last years)
    • Joint inflammation
    • Rarely: eye inflammation, neurological complications

    Risk areas

    Africa (East and Central Africa)Asia (India, Southeast Asia)CaribbeanCentral and South AmericaPacific islands

    About the vaccination

    Vaccine type

    Live attenuated vaccine

    How does it work?

    The vaccine contains a weakened form of the chikungunya virus that triggers an immune response without causing disease.

    ⏱️ When to vaccinate?

    At least 2 weeks before departure.

    Effectiveness

    High protection; exact effectiveness still being studied.

    Who should get this vaccination?

    • Travelers to areas with active chikungunya transmission
    • Long-term residents in tropical areas
    • People who have had chikungunya before (for protection against other strains)
    • Adventure travelers

    Not suitable for

    • Pregnant women
    • People with severely weakened immune system
    • Children younger than 18 years

    Possible side effects

    Headache, fatigue, muscle pain, joint pain, fever. Usually mild and short-lived.

    💡 Good to know

    This is a relatively new vaccine (approved 2023). Always combine with mosquito repellent measures.

    Book an appointment?

    Contact us for personal advice about your vaccinations.

    Personal care

    We respect your preferences. You can choose a male or female practitioner.

    Short waiting time

    Usually available within a week. Call for urgent appointments.

    View pricing

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    Frequently asked questions

    When is chikungunya vaccination useful?

    For travel during an active outbreak or longer stays in tropical areas where chikungunya occurs.

    What does chikungunya feel like?

    Sudden fever with severe joint pain. Joint complaints can last for months.

    Need more vaccinations?

    View all travel vaccinations we offer or book an appointment for personal advice.

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