Chikungunya

Chikungunya is caused by the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which is primarily spread by infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during daylight hours and are commonly found in tropical and subtropical climates.

Although Chikungunya is rarely life-threatening, it can cause debilitating symptoms that may last for weeks or even months in some individuals.

Symptoms usually appear between 3 and 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

Common symptoms include:

• Sudden high fever
• Severe joint pain
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Skin rash
• Swollen joints

While most people recover fully, some individuals may experience ongoing joint discomfort for an extended period.

A Chikungunya vaccine may be recommended for travellers who:

• Are visiting areas where Chikungunya is common
• Plan extended stays in tropical or subtropical regions
• Frequently travel to countries with mosquito-borne diseases
• Are older adults or individuals at increased risk of complications
• Will spend significant time outdoors during their trip

Our travel health team can assess your destination, duration of travel, and personal health circumstances to determine whether vaccination is suitable for you.

The Chikungunya vaccine is designed to help protect against infection caused by the Chikungunya virus.

During your consultation, our healthcare professional will discuss:

• Your travel itinerary
• Current vaccination recommendations
• Eligibility for vaccination
• Potential benefits and considerations
• Additional travel health precautions

Vaccination recommendations may vary depending on your destination and individual health needs.

Chikungunya has been reported in parts of:

• Africa
• Asia
• The Caribbean
• Central America
• South America
• The Indian Ocean region
• Some Pacific Islands

Outbreaks can occur periodically, and risk levels may vary between destinations.

Even if vaccinated, travellers should take steps to avoid mosquito bites.

Recommended precautions include:

• Using insect repellent containing approved active ingredients
• Wearing long-sleeved clothing and long trousers
• Staying in accommodation with screened windows or air conditioning
• Sleeping under mosquito nets when appropriate
• Avoiding areas with high mosquito activity where possible
• Removing standing water around accommodation where mosquitoes may breed

These measures can also help protect against other mosquito-borne illnesses.

• Professional travel health consultations
• Up-to-date travel vaccination advice
• Convenient appointment availability
• Experienced healthcare team
• Personalised travel risk assessments
• Friendly and confidential service

We aim to help travellers prepare safely and confidently for international travel.

If you are travelling to a destination where Chikungunya may be a concern, book a travel health consultation at Rusholme Pharmacy.

Our team can assess your travel plans, discuss vaccination options, and provide advice on protecting yourself from mosquito-borne diseases during your trip.

Book your Chikungunya Vaccination today and travel with greater confidence.