Vaccine Name
Chickngunya
Doses Needed
Single dose given. Lifelong for most people
Price
£185
Chikungunya Vaccine Guide – Protect Your Health with Corbett Pharmacy Droitwich Travel Clinic
Introduction: Why I’m Talking About Chikungunya
As Chief Pharmacist and Travel Clinic Lead at Corbett Pharmacy in Droitwich, I’ve had many patients come to me with questions about mosquito-borne illnesses. While most people have heard of malaria or dengue fever, far fewer know about Chikungunya.
This viral infection is spread by mosquito bites, and while it rarely causes death, it can make travellers extremely unwell. With symptoms like high fever and severe joint pain, Chikungunya can turn a dream holiday into weeks of suffering.
That’s why I’ve written this guide – to explain what Chikungunya is, where you might encounter it, and how you can protect yourself with the right vaccines and precautions.
➡️ If you’re already planning your trip and want to book in directly, you can do so here: Book Your Travel Vaccine Appointment
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by the same mosquitoes that spread dengue and Zika virus (mainly the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species). The name comes from an African word meaning “that which bends up” – a reference to the stooped posture many patients adopt due to the severe joint pain.
Symptoms of Chikungunya include:
Sudden high fever
Severe joint pain (sometimes lasting weeks or months)
Headache
Rash
Fatigue
Although most people recover, the illness can be very debilitating, especially for older adults or those with underlying conditions.
You can find further background from the NHS here: Travel Health – Chikungunya Virus
Where is Chikungunya Found?
Chikungunya is most common in tropical and subtropical regions, but outbreaks have occurred in more than 60 countries worldwide. The risk is highest in:
South Asia – including India
Africa – multiple regions with ongoing transmission
Central and South America – particularly during rainy seasons
The Caribbean islands
It’s worth noting that once Chikungunya arrives in a region, it can spread rapidly because the mosquitoes that transmit it are widely present.
➡️ Planning a trip soon? Speak to me at Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic about whether you need the Chikungunya vaccine.
How Does the Chikungunya Vaccine Work?
At Corbett Pharmacy, we provide the Chikungunya vaccine for travellers heading to high-risk destinations. This vaccine helps your immune system develop protection against the virus, reducing your risk of infection if bitten by an infected mosquito.
Key facts about the Chikungunya vaccine:
It’s a single-dose vaccine
Protection is long-lasting
Side effects are generally mild (similar to other vaccines)
It’s recommended for anyone travelling to areas where outbreaks are common
Like all vaccines we provide, I’ll personally assess your medical history before administering it to ensure it’s safe and suitable for you.
➡️ Learn more here: Chikungunya Vaccine – Droitwich Travel Clinic
Who Should Get the Chikungunya Vaccine?
You should strongly consider this vaccine if you are:
Travelling to South Asia or South-East Asia for extended stays
Visiting family in India or Indonesia
Taking part in outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, or volunteering abroad
Pregnant or have a weakened immune system and are travelling to risk areas
Even if your trip is short, remember that Chikungunya can strike after just a single mosquito bite.
Chikungunya vs. Other Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Patients often ask me how Chikungunya compares to other mosquito-borne illnesses. Here’s a quick table I use in consultations:
Disease | Main Symptoms | Vaccine Available? | Regions at Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
Chikungunya | Fever, joint pain, rash | ✅ Yes | Asia, Africa, Americas |
Dengue Fever | Fever, headache, rash | ❌ Not widely | Asia, Americas |
Zika Virus | Mild fever, rash, birth defects in pregnancy | ❌ Not widely | Asia, Americas |
Yellow Fever | Fever, jaundice, bleeding | ✅ Yes (Vaccine here) | Africa, South America |
This is why I often recommend Chikungunya vaccination alongside other key vaccines such as Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, depending on your destination.
Other Travel Vaccines to Consider Alongside Chikungunya
Since Chikungunya risk areas often overlap with regions where other diseases are common, I usually advise combining vaccines for maximum protection. For example:
Travelling to India? Consider Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Rabies.
Heading to Thailand or Indonesia? Japanese Encephalitis and Tetanus are often advised too.
Off to Africa? You may also need Yellow Fever and Cholera.
➡️ This is why it’s so important to have a consultation before you travel: Book your appointment today
Frequently Asked Questions About the Chikungunya Vaccine
1. Do I really need the Chikungunya vaccine?
If you’re travelling to a high-risk area, yes. The illness can be extremely unpleasant and long-lasting. Prevention is far better than cure.
2. How many doses do I need?
Currently, the vaccine is given as a single dose.
3. How long before travel should I get it?
I recommend coming in at least 2–3 weeks before departure, but even last-minute protection is better than none.
4. Are there any side effects?
Most side effects are mild, such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever.
5. Is the vaccine safe for children?
Suitability depends on age – I’ll advise you based on your child’s circumstances.
6. Is Chikungunya fatal?
It rarely causes death, but it can lead to long-term joint problems and severe discomfort.
Why Choose Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic for Your Chikungunya Vaccine?
At 36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich, we’re ideally placed to serve patients from across Worcester, Droitwich Spa, and wider Worcestershire. Unlike some clinics, we stock a full range of travel vaccines, including the Chikungunya vaccine, so you can get protected without long waits.
When you book with us, you’ll receive:
A personal consultation with me (Aran Bassi, Chief Pharmacist)
All the vaccines you need under one roof
Convenient, flexible appointments
Clear, expert advice tailored to your trip
➡️ Protect yourself before you go: Book your Chikungunya vaccine today
Conclusion: Don’t Let Mosquitoes Ruin Your Journey
Travel should be exciting, not stressful. Diseases like Chikungunya can turn an adventure into a nightmare – but with the right preparation, you can travel safely and confidently.
If you’re heading abroad soon, let me help you get the protection you need. At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, we’re here to keep you safe, every step of the way.
Written by:
Aran Bassi
Chief Pharmacist & Travel Clinic Lead
Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic
36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich, WR9 7BE
📞 01905 795618