
Urgent Chikungunya Vaccine Update: What U.S. Travelers Need to Know!
2025-04-18
Author: Benjamin
Valneva's IXCHIQ® Vaccine Gains CDC's Attention
In a significant move for public health, Valneva SE, a trailblazer in vaccine development based in France, has announced an update regarding its groundbreaking chikungunya vaccine, IXCHIQ®. On April 16, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) upheld its recommendation for IXCHIQ® for travelers aged 18 and older heading to chikungunya-affected regions. This vaccine is crucial for anyone embarking on journeys to areas currently experiencing outbreaks.
But it doesn't stop there! The committee has also indicated that for individuals over 18 aiming to reside in higher-risk areas—without an ongoing outbreak but where the threat is elevated—vaccination could be advisable, especially for stays of six months or more.
Safety Precaution Highlights for Older Adults
The ACIP has taken a cautious approach regarding IXCHIQ® for individuals 65 and older, prompted by an ongoing investigation into serious adverse events linked to the vaccine. Six troubling cases, including five hospitalizations among those aged 67-86, have caught the CDC’s eye. While all subjects had existing health issues, the ACIP is committed to thorough investigations before drawing conclusions.
Despite these concerns, the ACIP also noted that vaccination may still be warranted in outbreak situations for this age group due to the severe risks associated with chikungunya.
Real-World Impact and Distribution Efforts
Valneva recently made headlines by supplying 40,000 doses of IXCHIQ® to La Réunion, a French island amidst an ongoing outbreak. The local health authorities are prioritizing vaccinations for seniors with pre-existing conditions, ensuring they are shielded from the virus. Following this, Valneva has confirmed an additional order of 50,000 doses.
To date, nearly 80,000 doses of IXCHIQ® have been distributed across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Since January 2025, no further serious adverse events have been reported globally, and Valneva continues to monitor safety signals closely.
Expert Insights on Vaccine Safety
Dr. Juan Carlos Jaramillo, Valneva’s Chief Medical Officer, reassured the public, stating, "Our commitment to safety remains unwavering. We urge healthcare providers to evaluate the benefits versus risks based on individual medical histories, particularly with upcoming travel plans." The ACIP's recommendations are now awaiting final approval by the CDC's Director and the U.S. Department of Health.
The Chikungunya Threat: A Global Epidemic?
Chikungunya, spread through infected Aedes mosquitoes, is no minor threat. This viral infection, which can cause debilitating joint pain along with fever and fatigue, has been reported in over 110 countries since its emergence in 2004. Over 3.7 million cases were documented in the Americas from 2013 to 2023 alone, and the disease’s spread is projected to intensify with climate change, amplifying the role of the World Health Organization as a key player in public health.
Valneva: Innovators in Vaccine Development
Valneva SE is on the forefront of addressing public health challenges with its innovative vaccines, including the world’s first chikungunya vaccine. The company remains committed to advancing its pipeline, which includes potential vaccines for Lyme disease and Zika. With strong commercial growth fueling further research and development, Valneva is poised to be a leader in infectious disease prevention.