Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, May 13: In a notable development, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have jointly issued an advisory urging American travellers aged 60 and above to refrain from taking Ixchiq, the chikungunya vaccine developed by French biotech firm Valneva.

This advisory comes amid rising concerns after a CDC vaccine panel was alerted in April to cases of serious adverse reactions reported among older adults. At least six individuals aged 65 and above, most with pre-existing medical conditions, developed heart or brain-related complications within a week of receiving the vaccine. Over 10 similar cases have also emerged from international reports, prompting both US and European regulators to review the vaccine's safety profile for seniors.

The Ixchiq vaccine, introduced in 2024, is made from a weakened chikungunya virus and was initially recommended for adults travelling to regions experiencing chikungunya outbreaks. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne illness, prevalent in tropical regions, and causes symptoms such as fever, joint pain, headache, rash, and muscle aches.

Typically, between 100 and 200 cases are reported annually in American travellers returning from endemic areas. The illness, while rarely fatal, can be debilitating and long-lasting in some patients.

In light of the concerns surrounding Ixchiq, the CDC advisory committee has suggested that an alternative vaccine, Vimkunya, manufactured by Bavarian Nordic, be made available for travellers aged 12 and above visiting chikungunya-affected regions. However, the CDC is yet to formally accept this recommendation.

Health officials continue to emphasize preventive measures for those visiting affected countries. These include:

• Using EPA-registered insect repellents

• Wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants

• Treating clothes and gear with 0.5% permethrin

• Staying in air-conditioned or well-screened accommodations

According to the CDC, symptoms typically appear 3–7 days after infection, and while recovery is common, older adults and those with underlying conditions may face complications.

As the global travel season gains momentum, especially to Southeast Asia and South America where the virus is active, authorities urge heightened caution among elderly travellers and caregivers.