Chikungunya is a viral disease spread by Aedes mosquitoes. These species can live in many environments, including cities, towns, and rural areas in travel destinations across the world. And they mostly bite during the day.

Anyone who spends time in a place where chikungunya is present is at risk.

People who should consider getting vaccinated include: frequent or long-duration travelers ages 12 and older to anywhere chikungunya is present, especially people ages 65 and over and people with pre-existing joint pain, or certain diseases, like diabetes or cardiac disease.

Until recently, the only way to prevent getting chikungunya was to avoid Aedes mosquito bites. That might be possible by using bug spray, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants or treated clothing—or even avoiding the outdoors altogether.

Not necessarily. Aedes mosquitoes are more active during the day, and some are aggressive biters—even indoors. While you should still use them, traditional prevention methods may not offer enough protection on their own.

Almost everyone had an immune response 3 weeks after they were vaccinated with VIMKUNYA, including 98% of people ages 12–64 and 87% of those 65+. And 97% of people ages 12–64 showed a response at the 2-week mark, along with more than 82% of those 65 and older.

Side effects were mostly mild to moderate. The most common side effects were pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, and muscle pain.

VIMKUNYA is an eligible FSA and HSA expense. You can also check with your plan to see if it’s covered by your insurance. If you’re traveling for work, ask if it’s covered by your employer as a travel expense. VIMKUNYA is an eligible Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) expense.

Schedule a travel health appointment with your healthcare provider.
You may also be able to get vaccinated by your pharmacist.