Daily News Analysis » First Vaccine of Chikungunya: Ixchiq

First Vaccine of Chikungunya: Ixchiq

The world’s first chikungunya vaccine, Ixchiq, was approved by the FDA in the U.S. on November 9, 2023.

What is Chikungunya?

  • Chikungunya is a viral infection known for causing severe joint pain and fever.
  • It’s transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus female mosquitoes. 

The Chikungunya Vaccine: Ixchiq

  • It’s a single-dose vaccine injected into the muscle. It contains a live, weakened version of the chikungunya virus.

Significance of the Vaccine

  • Addresses an unmet medical need for a disease with limited treatment options.
  • Could accelerate vaccine rollout in countries with high chikungunya prevalence.
  • Represents a significant advancement in preventing a debilitating disease.

Why in News:

  • The world’s first chikungunya vaccine, Ixchiq, was approved by the FDA in the U.S. on November 9, 2023.