Chikungunya Vaccine
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 4, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
What you need to know about chikungunya vaccines:
A chikungunya vaccine is an injection given to help prevent chikungunya. The vaccine is given in 1 dose. You will not need a booster.
Reasons you should get a chikungunya vaccine:
Vaccination may be recommended if your work increases your risk for infection. For example, you may be infected through contact with infected blood, such as in a lab or during a blood draw. Vaccine is also recommended if you will be traveling to a place where the virus is common. Plan to get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before you leave.
- The live (weakened) vaccine is approved for adults aged 18 to 59.
- The inactivated vaccine is approved for anyone 12 years or older. No vaccine is approved for children younger than 12 years.
Reasons you should not get a chikungunya vaccine or should wait to get it:
- Do not get a chikungunya vaccine if you had a severe allergic reaction to any part of a chikungunya vaccine.
- Do not get the live vaccine if you have an immune system problem. You may still be able to get the inactivated vaccine.
- Tell your provider if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding. Your provider may want to give you the inactivated vaccine.
- Tell your provider if you are sick on the vaccine appointment day. Your provider will tell you if you need to wait until you feel better to get a vaccine.
Risks of chikungunya vaccines:
You may still get infected by the virus that causes chikungunya even after vaccination. The area where the vaccine was given may be red, tender, or swollen. You may have a headache, fever, or nausea (upset stomach). Your muscles or joints may ache, or you may develop a fever. You may have an allergic reaction to the vaccine you get. An allergic reaction can become life-threatening.
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Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) for any of the following:
- Your mouth and throat are swollen.
- You are wheezing or have trouble breathing.
- You have chest pain or your heart is beating faster than normal for you.
- You feel like you are going to faint.
Seek care immediately if:
- Your face is red or swollen.
- You have hives that spread over your body.
- You feel weak or dizzy.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever and a headache.
- You have questions or concerns about chikungunya vaccination.
Apply a warm compress
to the injection area to decrease pain and swelling.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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