In an alarming encounter typical of many travelers, Bruce Wale from Victoria, B.C., returned from a trip to San Jose, Mexico in 2022 with an unwelcomed souvenir: the Chikungunya virus, a debilitating mosquito-borne illness. While previous visits had left him with nothing more than vacation photos and a glowing tan, this particular journey resulted in a three-month struggle with severe symptoms.

"I found myself mostly bedridden," Wale recounted. "I was experiencing a range of issues, including trouble breathing. It was three months of sheer misery."

Wale had no prior knowledge of Chikungunya, a disease that mimics the severe pain of rheumatoid arthritis and presents with fever, rash, and extremely sore joints. The World Health Organization has recently drawn attention to the growing impact of climate change on the spread of vector-borne illnesses, emphasizing that more Canadians are heading to areas where such diseases are endemic—as seen in regions like India, China, and South America. This change increases the likelihood of encountering diseases like Chikungunya.

Fortunately, there is now hope on the horizon! Canada has become the second nation, following the United States, to authorize the world's first licensed Chikungunya vaccine, known as IXCHIQ. With Health Canada's approval obtained this summer, the vaccine will be accessible at pharmacies and travel clinics beginning November 14. Europe is also on track to finalize its approval shortly thereafter.

Dr. Wayne Ghesquiere, an infectious diseases expert from the University of British Columbia, emphasizes the importance of evaluating one's personal risk when considering the vaccine. "I highly encourage adults over 18, especially older individuals, to think about getting vaccinated," he advised. Despite the virus rarely being fatal, Dr. Ghesquiere warns that it poses significant health risks.

"Younger adults in their 20s to 40s are also susceptible, facing symptoms like fever and a rash, but it's the joint pain—arthralgia—that's particularly concerning," he continued. This inflammation can linger for months, or in some cases, years. Wale is a testament to this reality, as he still copes with joint pain and suspects lingering effects of Chikungunya—even after a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

When contemplating the vaccination, it's essential to assess your travel itinerary. Are you planning an adventurous hike through the jungle or simply laying on a beach? This choice could impact your need for the vaccine. "For short trips, say a week or two, the vaccine may not be necessary," Dr. Ghesquiere noted. "But if you're planning an extended stay, it’s worth considering."

The vaccine price hovers around $225 for a single dose—a small investment compared to the excruciating experience Wale endured. "I can't advocate for the vaccine enough. Even though I've become immune, what I went through is something I wouldn't wish on anyone," he stated.

The name ‘Chikungunya’ originates from the Kimakonde word in Africa that means “to become contorted,” aptly reflecting the distressing posture of those affected. Since 2004, the world has faced increasing outbreaks, prompting the WHO to classify Chikungunya as a significant public health threat and place it on the list of neglected tropical diseases needing urgent attention.

With vector-borne disorders impacting up to 700 million individuals globally each year, and with diverse threats including malaria, dengue, and Zika, the arrival of the Chikungunya vaccine is a critical advancement in the battle against such diseases. The developments surrounding this vaccine offer a glimmer of hope for travelers and locals alike, highlighting the importance of awareness and proactive health measures in a changing world.