The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has withdrawn the IXCHIQ chikungunya vaccine from use in the UK following reports of deaths, hospitalisations, and neurological issues. The regulator announced on Tuesday that healthcare professionals should no longer prescribe or administer the vaccine.
Vaccine Withdrawal and Immediate Action
The MHRA stated: "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."
IXCHIQ is a live vaccine designed to prevent chikungunya virus infection in adults travelling to high-risk regions. Since receiving authorisation, a significant number of serious adverse reactions have been recorded, including chikungunya-like symptoms and rare neurological complications such as encephalitis.
Reported Side Effects and Affected Groups
These cases have occurred predominantly amongst older adults and those with underlying health conditions, though they were also reported in individuals with no known medical issues. Some side effects resulted in hospitalisation and even death.
Medical professionals have been instructed to stop using the vaccine with immediate effect and to refrain from prescribing, supplying, or administering the vaccine. They are also required to dispose of all remaining stocks in line with established protocols.
Guidance for Previous Recipients
The MHRA confirmed there is no risk to individuals who have previously received the IXCHIQ vaccination without experiencing side effects, and neither revaccination nor any other medical intervention is necessary. The MHRA stated: "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."
Those planning to travel from the UK to regions where chikungunya transmission is known to occur are strongly urged to look into alternative preventative measures. These include getting vaccinated with a different vaccine, guarding against mosquito bites through the use of netting or repellent, and following health-related travel guidance.
Understanding Chikungunya Virus
Chikungunya virus is an infection transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes tend to be most active during daylight hours, particularly shortly after sunrise and around dusk.
The overwhelming majority of those who catch chikungunya make a full recovery within one to two weeks. However, the joint pain associated with the illness can be severe and, in certain cases, may linger for several months or even years. While fatalities from chikungunya remain rare, the disease can result in long-term disability for some sufferers. Prior to travelling abroad, travellers should check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) health advice.
