Chikungunya Vaccination
About the Chikungunya Vaccination
Book AppointmentGet the first dose at least 14 days before travelling.
To achieve the best possible immunity, 1 dose is required.
A booster is not usually required.
Injection in the upper arm.
Research is ongoing to confirm its duration of immunity.
As with all live vaccines; mild fever, headache, and pain at the injection site.
Currently suitable from 18 - 64 years.
Risk if you contract
Severe Chikungunya can cause severe joint pain—especially in the hands and feet—that can last weeks, or even months to years in some cases.
Why choose CityDoc?
- Same, next day & weekend appointments
- Full range of vaccines in stock
- Experienced travel health nurses
- 100+ clinics & pharmacy partners nationwide
- 80 registered Yellow Fever clinics
- Care Quality Commission regulated
Individual consultation
The nurse or pharmacist will discuss requirements with you so we can tailor the advice to your individual needs:
- Your upcoming travel itinerary
- Your planned activities
- Your medical history
Expert advice
Our expert will explain the vaccines, what they protect against, the costs and any other risks. You can choose what to take up:
- Your recommended vaccines
- Your options for non-essential vaccines
- Other precautions against health risks
Treatment
You will receive your vaccinations and antimalarials during the same appointment. Some vaccines require several doses.
- First vaccine doses administered
- Yellow Fever certificate
- Booking for follow up doses
Do I need Chikungunya vaccine?
The Chikungunya vaccine is recommended for long term travellers, adventure tourists and travellers visiting friends and family to or living in areas where Chikungunya is prevalent, especially in parts South and Central America, the Caribbean, and Asia.
How effective is the Chikungunya vaccine (Ixchiq)?
The live vaccine (Ixchiq) has a protection of 98.9% at 28 days after vaccination.
How long does the Chikungunya vaccine (Ixchiq) last?
Studies are yet to establish how long immunity lasts.
How far in advance should I get vaccinated for Chikungunya before travelling?
Getting vaccinated before travelling is a key step in safeguarding your health, the health of those around you, and the public health of the communities you visit. For Chikungunya, it is advisable to get the vaccine at least 14 days before departure.
How much does it cost to get a Chikungunya vaccine (Ixchiq)?
A consultation with our specialist travel nurse costs £20 for the first appointment and £10 for follow ups. The consultation is required to assess your travel plans and medical history and recommend vaccinations for your individual needs. A dose of the Chikungunya vaccine costs £185, and 1 dose is required.
Please see our full price list for details.
Common and rare side effects of the Chikungunya vaccine (Ixchiq)
Currently – temporary suspended for over 65 years of age, whilst further information is being reviewed.
Chikungunya vaccine near me
You can get the Chikungunya vaccine in one of our flagship clinics with locations in:
- London: Victoria, Moorgate, London Bridge
- Manchester
- Hampshire: Winchester, Southampton
- Hertfordshire: Hitchin
- Sussex: Brighton & Hove, Worthing
- Kent: Ashford
You can also visit one of our local pharmacy partners by finding a clinic near you.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a virus infection transmitted by the same mosquitoes that transmit Yellow Fever, Dengue and Zika infections.
What are symptoms of Chikungunya?
Severe pain in the joints (often the hands and feet, on both sides of the body), fever, typically lasting 7 days. A relapse period can occur with persistent joint pains and prolonged fatigue for months or years after the infection.
What is the schedule for the Chikungunya vaccine?
The Chikungunya vaccine is recommended from the age of 18 and consists of 1 dose.
| Age range | Method of Administration | Number of doses |
|---|---|---|
| From 18 to 64 years of age | Injection | 1 dose |
Who is not able to have the Chikungunya vaccine?
The Chikungunya vaccine is not recommended for people under the ago of 18 or over 64 years old. Or those with severe allergies to any vaccine component or those with a compromised immune system.
Is the Chikungunya vaccine free on the NHS?
The chikungunya vaccine is not available on the NHS, as it is primarily recommended for use in Chikungunya-endemic regions.
What additional precautions do I need to take to avoid Chikungunya?
These additional measures, combined with staying informed about Chikungunya activity in your travel or residential area, can significantly reduce your risk of contracting Dengue Fever:
- Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or other approved ingredients to exposed skin and clothing. Reapply as directed, especially during peak mosquito activity (early morning and evening).
- Opt for long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes to minimise exposed skin, particularly in mosquito-prone areas.
- Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, especially in areas without screened windows or air conditioning.
- Regularly empty or remove items that collect water, such as buckets, tires, and flowerpots, as these are breeding grounds for *Aedes* mosquitoes.
- Choose accommodations with screens on windows and doors, or use air-conditioned rooms, as mosquitoes are less likely to thrive in these environments.
- Use mosquito traps, coils, or plug-in insecticides to reduce mosquito presence indoors.
- Take extra precautions during the rainy season when mosquito populations increase.