Chikungunya Vaccine
Protect yourself with the Chikungunya vaccine before you travel.
There has been a rise in outbreaks of Chikungunya recently, including in parts of Europe such as France.
If you’re travelling to areas at risk, vaccination is the most effective way to stay protected.
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a virus spread by mosquitoes an it can cause a sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain and in some cases, long-lasting complications. It’s currently found in around 110 countries, and around 75% of the world’s population live in areas at risk.
While once considered rare in Europe, 19 countries have now reported cases therefore making the Chikungunya vaccine more relevant than ever.
Symptoms of Chikungunya
Symptoms can be easily confused with dengue or Zika. Around 65–85% of people develop acute symptoms, while up to 43% may experience long-term (chronic) effects.
Acute symptoms may include:
- High fever
- Debilitating joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
Chronic symptoms may include:
- Persistent joint and muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Arthritis-like symptoms
Many people never fully return to their previous health status after being infected with chikungunya, with some reporting long-term fatigue, poor sleep, reduced mobility, and mental health impacts.
Do I Need the Chikungunya Vaccine?
You should consider the vaccine if you are:
- Travelling to risk areas (parts of Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Indian Ocean islands)
- Going on a long-term trip or have an unplanned itinerary
- Visiting areas with recent outbreaks
Countries with recent outbreaks (2025): Mauritius, Réunion, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Brazil, Mayotte, Kenya, Bolivia, and France.
Due to climate change, mosquito-borne diseases are spreading further and outbreaks may become more common in mainland Europe, India and the Pacific Islands.
To check the latest travel health advice, visit TravelHealthPro.
Our vaccination service and how it works
Many Kamsons Pharmacy locations offer travel vaccinations, including the chikungunya vaccine, which are administered in-branch. Here’s how the process works:
- Register Your Interest: Simply complete the online questionnaire to begin the process.
- Consultation: Your form will be reviewed by one of our independent prescribers.
- Appointment Scheduling: After completing our online consultation form wait 48 hours before contacting your chosen branch to arrange your vaccination slot.
The chikungunya vaccine is available at Kamsons Pharmacy for £195. Only one dose is required.
If you’re planning to travel, you may also be interested in our Period Delay, Antimalarial, and Travel Vaccine services to ensure your health and safety abroad.
FAQs
How effective is the chikungunya vaccine?
Extremely effective. In clinical trials:
- 99% of participants developed protective antibodies within 1 month
- 97% maintained these levels 2 years after vaccination
How is the vaccine given?
It’s a single-dose live vaccine, given as an injection into the upper arm.
Who can have the chikungunya vaccine?
The vaccine is licensed for adults aged 18–65. Other medical conditions or medications may affect eligibility, which will be reviewed by our prescribers.
Are there any side effects of the chikungunya vaccine?
Most side effects are mild and short-lived, some of these side effects are:
- Sore arm around injection site
- Fever
- Muscle/joint aches
- Headache
- Skin rash
- Nausea
If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, seek medical attention urgently.
How else can I protect myself from Chikungunya?
Vaccination is the best protection, but you should also:
- Use mosquito repellent
- Wear long sleeves and trousers
- Sleep under a mosquito net if needed
Can I get the chikungunya vaccine with others?
This vaccine cannot be administered at the same time as other vaccine and will be given during a separate appointment.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring valid photo ID with you.