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4d ago

Germany’s Stiko Recommends First Travel Vaccine Against Chikungunya for High-Risk Groups

Responding to a first domestic case, Stiko has issued travel vaccine guidance with two approved vaccines to curb severe Chikungunya illness.

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Die Ständige Impfkommission hat erstmals eine Reiseimpfung gegen Chikungunya für bestimmte Personengruppen empfohlen. Unter anderem sollten sich Kinder ab zwölf Jahren, die in Gebiete mit aktuellem Chikungunya-Ausbruch reisen, impfen lassen.

Overview

  • Children aged 12 and older traveling to outbreak regions, long-term and frequent visitors to endemic areas, older adults with risk factors and lab personnel now qualify for vaccination under the new Stiko recommendation.
  • Two vaccines are available: the live-attenuated Ixchiq, restricted to ages 12–59 pending EMA safety review, and the inactivated Vimkunya recommended for all eligible individuals aged 12 and above.
  • The guidance aims to prevent Chikungunya infections, alleviate severe joint pain and avoid prolonged illness and fatalities.
  • On July 7, the Robert Koch Institute confirmed a locally transmitted case near the Franco-German border, highlighting domestic transmission potential.
  • Established Aedes albopictus populations in states including Baden-Württemberg, Hesse and Bavaria, coupled with high summer temperatures, increase the risk of local outbreaks.