The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has withdrawn the IXCHIQ chikungunya vaccine from use in the UK after a safety review concluded that its benefits no longer outweigh its risks.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the MHRA said: "Healthcare professionals should no longer prescribe or administer the IXCHIQ [chikungunya] vaccine and should instead consider alternative measures to reduce the risk of chikungunya infection in individuals travelling to affected areas."
Serious adverse reactions reported
IXCHIQ is a live attenuated vaccine designed to prevent chikungunya virus infection in adults travelling to high-risk regions. Since gaining authorisation, numerous serious adverse reactions have been documented, including chikungunya-like symptoms and uncommon neurological complications such as encephalitis. These incidents have occurred mainly among older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions, although they were also noted in individuals with no known medical problems.
Certain cases resulted in hospitalisation or death, reports the Mirror.
Healthcare professionals directed to stop use
Healthcare professionals have been directed to stop use with immediate effect and to refrain from prescribing, supplying, or administering the vaccine. They are also obliged to dispose of all remaining stock in accordance with established protocols.
The MHRA has confirmed that those who have previously received the IXCHIQ vaccine without experiencing any adverse effects face no risk, and neither revaccination nor any additional medical intervention is required. "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."
Advice for travellers
Those intending to travel from the UK to areas where chikungunya transmission is known to occur are encouraged to explore alternative preventative measures, including vaccination with a different vaccine, protection from mosquito bites through the use of netting or repellent, and adhering to travel health guidance.
Chikungunya is a viral infection spread to humans primarily via the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which tend to be most active during daylight hours, particularly shortly after sunrise and around dusk. The vast majority of those infected with chikungunya make a full recovery within one to two weeks. However, the joint pain linked to the illness can be severe and, in some cases, may persist for several months or even years.
Although deaths from chikungunya are uncommon, the disease can lead to long-term disability in certain sufferers. Before travelling abroad, you are advised to consult the latest guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
