The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has withdrawn the chikungunya vaccine IXCHIQ from use in the UK after a safety review concluded that its risks now outweigh its benefits.
Health officials have instructed professionals to stop prescribing and administering the live vaccine, which was intended for adults travelling to areas where the virus is common.
Serious side effects reported
Serious reactions linked to the vaccine have included chikungunya-like symptoms and rare neurological complications such as encephalitis, with some cases leading to hospitalisation or death. These cases were mainly reported among older adults and those with underlying health conditions, but also occurred in people with no known medical issues.
The MHRA confirmed that people who have received the vaccine without experiencing side effects do not need further treatment or revaccination.
Advice for those affected
The regulator added: "Any individuals who have previously received IXCHIQ vaccination and experienced side effects are advised to seek medical advice and report to the Yellow Card scheme."
Chikungunya virus is an infection transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are typically active during daylight hours, particularly shortly after sunrise and around dusk.
Alternative precautions for travellers
Travellers are advised to consider other ways to reduce their risk, including alternative vaccines, mosquito repellent and netting, and to check the latest travel health guidance.
