U.S. health officials are advising older travelers to reconsider getting the newly approved chikungunya vaccine, citing potential safety risks for individuals aged 65 and above. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued updated guidance this week, raising caution about the vaccine’s use among seniors who may face increased risks of adverse reactions.
The chikungunya virus, transmitted by infected mosquitoes, is most commonly found in parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. While it rarely causes death, it can lead to debilitating joint pain and fever, with long-lasting symptoms in some individuals. The vaccine, approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late 2023, was initially seen as a breakthrough in preventing the disease for at-risk travelers.
However, after evaluating clinical trial data and early reports following the vaccine’s rollout, U.S. health authorities now recommend that travelers over 65 discuss alternative preventive measures with their healthcare providers before considering vaccination.
“While the vaccine remains an important tool for preventing chikungunya in younger adults, the risk-benefit balance changes for older individuals,” the CDC noted in its updated travel health advisory. “Older adults are more susceptible to severe vaccine side effects, and in many cases, the potential risks may outweigh the benefits for this group.”
Health experts are instead emphasizing other protective strategies for older travelers visiting chikungunya-endemic regions, such as using mosquito repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and staying in accommodations with proper mosquito control.
The advisory comes at a time when global travel is rebounding, particularly among retirees and senior tourists. This demographic shift has prompted heightened focus on travel health risks and the need for tailored recommendations for older populations.
As of now, the CDC is not retracting the vaccine’s approval for older adults but is urging caution and individualized medical consultation. Travelers planning to visit affected areas should review their itineraries and health conditions with their doctors before deciding on vaccination.
The chikungunya vaccine remains available for younger travelers and those with underlying health risks that might make mosquito-borne infections more dangerous. Medical professionals continue to monitor post-vaccination outcomes to ensure public safety and effective disease prevention.
Source : Swifteradio.com
