Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites and Chikungunya

What You Need to Know About the New XChiq Vaccine

Suppose you’re planning a trip to tropical or subtropical regions. In that case, one of the most important things to prepare for, besides packing sunscreen and bug spray, is protection from mosquito-borne illnesses. Diseases such as Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika continue to spread in many parts of the world, and travellers from Vancouver heading to destinations in Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, or South America are particularly at risk.

Fortunately, medical advances have brought a new level of protection—especially against the Chikungunya virus, with the arrival of the XChiq vaccine, now available in Canada.

Understanding Chikungunya

Chikungunya (pronounced chik-en-gun-ya) is a viral infection transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes, the same type that spreads Dengue and Zika.

Symptoms usually begin 3–7 days after a mosquito bite and may include:

• Sudden high fever

• Severe joint pain (often in hands, feet, or wrists)

• Headache and muscle pain

• Rash or fatigue

While most people recover within a week, joint pain can linger for weeks or even months. There is currently no specific treatment, which makes prevention and vaccination key for travellers.

Introducing XChiq: The First Chikungunya Vaccine

Health authorities recently approved XChiq, the first vaccine designed to protect against the Chikungunya virus. Developed to help reduce the risk of infection in adults who may be exposed to the virus, this vaccine offers a significant step forward for travel health.

XChiq at a glance:

• It is a single-dose vaccine.

• Approved for adults 18 years and older.

• It helps the body develop immunity before travelling to areas where Chikungunya is common.

• It should ideally be given at least two weeks before travel to allow protection to build.

This vaccine is especially recommended for travellers heading to tropical destinations such as:

• The Caribbean (Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Haiti)

• Central and South America

• Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines)

• Parts of Africa and the Indian Ocean region

Why Mosquito Bite Prevention Still Matters

Even with vaccines available, mosquito bite protection remains a cornerstone of travel health. Here are a few reminders for safer travels:

• Use insect repellent with DEET and picaridin.

• Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants.

• Sleep under treated mosquito nets in rural or high-risk areas.

• Stay in accommodations with screens or air conditioning when possible.

Combining preventive habits with vaccination provides the strongest protection.

Get Your Travel Vaccines and Consultation in Vancouver

At Ocean Travel Clinic in Vancouver, our healthcare professionals specialize in pre-travel health consultations and vaccinations.

We provide up-to-date guidance on mosquito-borne diseases, including Chikungunya, Dengue, and Malaria, and we now offer the XChiq vaccine for eligible travellers.

Whether you’re visiting family abroad, taking a cruise, or heading to a tropical getaway, our travel health experts will help ensure you’re fully protected before you go.

 Book your travel consultation today to learn more about Chikungunya prevention and get personalized vaccine recommendations for your trip.