Consider getting the Ixchiq vaccine if you’re travelling to areas with active transmission, including:

• Regions experiencing chikungunya outbreaks
• Areas with evidence of chikungunya virus circulation
• Tropical and subtropical destinations where Aedes mosquitoes are common
• Locations where you’ll be spending extended periods (typically more than one month)
• Areas with limited healthcare infrastructure
• Destinations where you’ll be engaging in outdoor activities or staying in accommodation without adequate mosquito protection

Chikungunya symptoms typically include:

• Sudden onset of high fever (often exceeding 39°C)
• Severe joint pain (arthralgia), particularly in hands, wrists, ankles, and feet
• Joint swelling and stiffness
• Muscle pain and headache
• Fatigue and weakness
• Skin rash (may appear 3-5 days after fever onset)
• Nausea and red eyes
• Back pain and general body aches

Note: Joint pain can be severely debilitating and may persist for weeks or months after initial infection. Acute symptoms typically resolve within 7-10 days, but chronic joint pain is common.

The Ixchiq vaccine is administered as a single dose given subcutaneously:

• Dosing: Single injection provides protection
• Timing: Should be given at least 2 weeks before travel for optimal protection
• Side effects: Common mild reactions include injection site pain, fatigue, headache, and muscle pain
• Age restrictions: Approved for adults aged 18-65 years only
• Special considerations: Not recommended for pregnant women or adults over 65 years (due to ongoing safety investigations)
• Duration: Full immunity develops approximately 2 weeks after vaccination
• Contraindications: Being a live-attenuated vaccine, it should be avoided in immunocompromised individuals

Important: This vaccine is primarily recommended for travellers spending longer periods in endemic areas rather than short-term visitors.