IXCHIQ Chikungunya vaccine: temporary suspension in people aged 65 years or older

Post-publication note – February 2026

Following this article, the MHRA published updated advice on restrictions for use of the IXCHIQ Chikungunya vaccine which supersedes this article. Please therefore consult the February 2026 Drug Safety Update instead of this article when prescribing the IXCHIQ Chikungunya vaccine.

- Chikungunya vaccine (IXCHIQ) is a vaccine to protect against life-threatening Chikungunya virus infection; strict adherence to contraindications and precautions is essential to reduce the risk of very rare but potentially fatal adverse reactions

- following a review of the benefits and risks of the vaccine, CHM has made a recommendation to restrict use of this vaccine in individuals aged 65 years and older, while data is reviewed from global cases

- do not use this vaccine in people aged over 65 years for the period of the suspension

- the product information for the vaccine will not change during this suspension, but a letter for healthcare professionals will be circulated from the company in addition to this Drug Safety Update, to advise of the restrictions on those aged 65 and above

- IXCHIQ vaccine is already contraindicated in all individuals with immunodeficiency or immunosuppression as a result of disease or medical therapy, this includes IgA deficiency

- patients who have received the vaccine should be advised to seek emergency medical attention if they develop signs or symptoms associated with viraemia, including arthralgia, or neurological symptoms including encephalopathy

- all patients who have received the vaccine should receive the manufacturer’s patient information leaflet as part of the travel consultation

- further communications will be circulated to inform of the outcome of the review

- report suspected adverse reactions associated with the IXCHIQ vaccine on a Yellow Card

- the Chikungunya vaccine is given to those who plan to travel abroad to certain regions, where the Chikungunya virus is present. Chikungunya virus is a potentially life-threatening viral infection

- a live attenuated Chikungunya vaccine, IXCHIQ, is coming to the UK market on 18 June 2025, it has not been available on the UK market before this time

- the IXCHIQ vaccine should not be used for people aged 65 years and over until MHRA has completed a full safety review. This is because there have been rare reports of serious side effects in this age group globally

- during your vaccine consultation you will be assessed by a healthcare professional for vaccine suitability, you will not be given this vaccine if you are aged over 65 years old, or if you are immunosuppressed or immunodeficient. Alternative vaccines are available for these groups

- if you have received a Chikungunya vaccine, you should seek urgent medical attention if you start to experience joint pain, fever, stiff neck or confusion

Trigger for detailed review and recommendations