Chikungunya Vaccine: Do you want it?

What’s behind the unique title?

Chikungunya is a virus that may be discovered in lots of areas of the world, together with Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Whereas we’re fairly protected from this virus in Canada, people who find themselves travelling to different international locations ought to pay attention to this illness. Like Malaria and West Nile virus, it’s often unfold to people by mosquito bites. The title “Chikungunya” means “to turn into contorted” in a Tanzanian language, the place it was first recognized in 1952.

Chikungunya typically happens in heat and wet areas, as these present good situations for the kind of mosquitoes that unfold the illness. These mosquitoes sometimes chunk in the course of the day and close to water sources. Chikungunya first appeared within the Caribbean in late 2013. By the top of 2017, there had been greater than 2.9 million instances. Throughout outbreaks, the virus can unfold in a short time, affecting as much as 75% of the native inhabitants. Many international locations have additionally skilled outbreaks up to now 5 years, together with well-liked locations equivalent to Mexico, Thailand, The Maldives, and Nigeria.

People who find themselves sick from the Chikungunya virus don’t often die from the illness, however it will probably typically go away some long-term points. As much as 30% of contaminated folks present no signs, however those that do typically expertise excessive fever and extreme joint ache within the palms and toes. Rash and eye issues may happen. Infants, older adults, and folks with sure medical situations could also be at greater threat for growing extreme illness. Though most individuals get well in seven to 10 days, joint ache and tiredness can final for years. Folks affected by long-term results of Chikungunya infections are sometimes unable to face upright with out problem and ache, continuously adopting a “contorted” posture that offers rise to the illness’s title.

There isn’t a therapy for the Chikungunya virus other than relaxation, fluids, and ache relievers; due to this fact, prevention is the very best strategy. Correct use of mosquito safety measures—equivalent to mosquito repellant sprays, long-sleeved clothes, and mosquito nets—is essential to supply safety in opposition to Chikungunya. These measures may forestall different mosquito-borne illnesses equivalent to Malaria, Dengue Fever, and Zika virus. Just lately, a brand new Chikungunya vaccine that gives wonderful safety in opposition to the virus has been authorized in Canada for people who find themselves vulnerable to publicity to the illness. It will likely be obtainable in late 2024.

When you’re planning a visit, speak to a doctor or schedule an appointment with a healthcare supplier who focuses on journey medication. It’s best to schedule an appointment no less than 4 to 6 weeks earlier than your journey, as a result of some vaccines require a number of doses for full safety. Travellers with shorter timelines must also search recommendation. All of our Journey Clinic pharmacists are licensed by the Worldwide Society of Journey Medication (ISTM). They will give you complete journey recommendation, plus vaccines and medicines to assist maintain you protected in your journey. Go to ldtravelclinics.ca for extra details about our London Medication Journey Clinics and for an inventory of places.

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