What is Chikungunya?

Chikungunya is a viral infection spread by mosquito bites. It often causes high fever, severe joint pain, headaches and tiredness. While it is rarely life-threatening, the symptoms can be very painful and may last for weeks or months.

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Why Is the Chikungunya Vaccine Important?

The vaccine helps protect you against chikungunya before travelling to areas where the virus is common. Since there is no specific treatment for chikungunya, prevention through vaccination and mosquito protection is the best safeguard.

Who Should Consider the Chikungunya Vaccine?

Anyone planning to travel to countries in Africa, Asia, or the Americas where chikungunya outbreaks have been reported should consider getting vaccinated. It is especially important for:
  • Travellers visiting friends or relatives abroad.
  • People going on long trips or staying in rural areas.
  • Those with health conditions that may make recovery harder.
Please note: This vaccine can only be given to people who have had a chikungunya infection in the past. Proof of past infection, such as medical paperwork, will need to be shown at your appointment. If you do not have this, a private blood test will need to be arranged first, which can be booked through Aroga Pharmacy

How Does the Chikungunya Vaccine Work?

The chikungunya vaccine stimulates your body to build immunity against the virus. This protection lowers your risk of falling ill if bitten by an infected mosquito while abroad.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When you come in for your appointment, our pharmacists will:

  • Review your travel plans and health history.
  • Advise on the chikungunya vaccine and other recommended travel vaccines.
  • Administer the vaccine in a safe and professional setting.
  • Provide guidance on mosquito bite prevention while abroad.

Where Can You Get the Chikungunya Vaccine?

At Lawton Pharmacy, our trained pharmacists provide the chikungunya vaccine in Heathrow, Hillingdon, Uxbridge and Middlesex. We provide a smooth and convenient way for you to get protected ahead of your journey.

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Other Ways to Protect Yourself From Chikungunya

Even with vaccination, it is important to reduce the chance of mosquito bites. Useful steps include:

  • Using insect repellent on exposed skin.
  • Wearing long-sleeved clothing and trousers.
  • Sleeping under treated mosquito nets if needed.

Protect Yourself Before You Travel

If you are planning to travel soon, book your chikungunya vaccine with Lawton Pharmacy today. Getting vaccinated before you go gives you peace of mind and protection for your trip.

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We pride ourselves on offering our customers a quick, efficient service.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A: Yes, the chikungunya vaccine has been tested for safety and effectiveness in clinical trials. Side effects, if any, are usually mild, such as a sore arm, headache or tiredness.

A: It is best to get the vaccine at least two weeks before your trip so your body has time to build protection.

A: In most cases, one dose is enough to provide protection. Our pharmacists will advise if any follow-up is recommended based on your travel plans and health history. 

A: Yes, the chikungunya vaccine can often be given alongside other travel vaccines. Our pharmacists will check and guide you on the best schedule. 

A: People who are unwell with a high temperature or those with certain health conditions may be advised to delay or avoid the vaccine. Our pharmacists will review your health before giving the jab. 

A: Yes, you should still use repellent, wear protective clothing, and use nets if needed. The vaccine lowers your risk but does not replace general mosquito bite prevention. 

A: Yes. The vaccine can only be given to people who have previously had chikungunya. You will be asked to provide medical proof of past infection at your appointment. If you do not have this, a private blood test will need to be arranged first, which can be booked through Aroga Pharmacy