The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has withdrawn the IXCHIQ chikungunya vaccine from use in the UK after serious side effects and deaths were linked to the drug.
Healthcare professionals have been ordered to immediately stop prescribing or administering IXCHIQ, a live vaccine against chikungunya, and to dispose of all remaining stocks.
Serious Reactions Reported
Serious adverse reactions recorded since the vaccine's authorisation include chikungunya-like symptoms and rare neurological complications such as encephalitis. Most cases have occurred among older adults and those with underlying health conditions, though they were also reported in individuals with no known medical problems.
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."
Alternative Precautions Advised
Travellers heading to high-risk areas are urged to consider alternative precautions, including mosquito repellent, protective netting, and following the latest FCDO health guidance.
Chikungunya virus is 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.
