SHIFT Newsroom · UK
IXCHIQ: the 2025 pause was replaced by stricter rules
An archived suspension for people aged 65 and over now points to the completed UK safety review.
The MHRA’s June 2025 temporary pause on IXCHIQ vaccination for people aged 65 and over is historical advice. The notice now carries a February 2026 post-publication note directing readers to a replacement safety update. The original age threshold should therefore not be presented as the current UK rule. MHRA source
The initial precaution followed global reports of serious reactions, including deaths, while regulators assessed the vaccine’s safety. IXCHIQ contains a weakened live chikungunya virus; the early notice also highlighted restrictions for people whose immune systems were weakened. That investigation was still open when the June article appeared. MHRA source
The completed review led to tighter restrictions on 11 February 2026. The MHRA’s accompanying announcement limits use to adults aged 18–59 without specified contraindications. It also introduces precautions concerning underlying illness and timing before travel. The agency describes these as permanent restrictions following the review, replacing the temporary pause. MHRA source
This archive story records that sequence. The linked replacement notice provides the operative detail, and suitability remains a matter for a trained healthcare professional’s assessment. Reporting the historical pause alone would leave travellers with an outdated account of the UK position. MHRA source
Known facts
- June 2025 notice explicitly superseded.
- February 2026 announcement narrows use to 18–59.