Chikungunga Cases Increase 71% in the U.K.

Over 100 countries have reported chikungunya cases this past year, and the United Kingdom has recently increased its share of these cases.

As of December 4, 2024, the U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that travel-associated chikungunya cases have recently increased in the U.K.

Between January and June 2024, 24 chikungunya patients were reported: 23 in England (10 in London), one in Wales, and zero in Northern Ireland. This data represents a 71% increase compared to the same period in 2023, which saw 14 cases.

Furthermore, the majority of these patients reported travel to Southern Asia (52%), followed by South-Eastern Asia (26%) and South America (22%).

The most frequently reported countries of travel were India and Brazil.

Since 2023, laboratories in England have a statutory duty to notify the UKHSA of identifying chikungunya virus patients.

To protect international travelers from this mosquito-transmitted disease, Valneva SE's IXCHIQ® monovalent, single-dose, live-attenuated vaccine has been authorized in Europe, the United States, and numerous other countries.

Recently, a clinical trial revealed that 96% of participants maintained neutralizing antibody titers for about three years.

With the U.S. setting new air travel records, international travelers should consult a vaccine expert about immunization options. IXCHIQ is available at most travel clinics and pharmacies.