SHIFT Newsroom · UK
UK tightens IXCHIQ restrictions after safety review
February 2026 advice excludes people aged 60 and over and adds restrictions for several chronic conditions.
The MHRA has tightened the UK restrictions on IXCHIQ after completing its safety review. Its 11 February 2026 announcement says the chikungunya vaccine should be used only in adults aged 18–59, replacing the earlier temporary pause for those aged 65 and over. MHRA source
The updated advice excludes people with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes or chronic kidney disease. Existing restrictions relating to immune deficiency or immune suppression remain relevant, including the specified thymus conditions. A trained healthcare professional must assess the balance of benefits and risks before vaccination, with particular caution when someone has multiple underlying conditions. MHRA source
The review also recommends vaccination at least 30 days before travel, so a serious reaction could be assessed while the person remains in the UK. The announcement cited 28 globally reported serious reactions, including three deaths; those reports do not provide a population risk rate. MHRA source
The regulator still considers the balance favourable for eligible adults at risk of infection. Chikungunya is mainly transmitted by infected mosquitoes. The detailed notice says an alternative vaccine is available when IXCHIQ is unsuitable; selecting an option requires a travel-health assessment. These are product-specific restrictions, not a statement that every chikungunya vaccine has the same limitations. MHRA source
Known facts
- The detailed advice uses 60 or over, including age 60.
- Travel precaution: at least 30 days beforehand.