The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Thursday announced its approval of Ixchiq, the first chikungunya vaccine. The vaccine, which is made by Valneva, is approved for anyone age 18 and older who has a risk of being exposed to the virus. The chikungunya virus is transmitted to people through bites from infected mosquitoes.
Symptoms usually begin within three to seven days after transmission. Most people who contract the virus get better within a week. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe and long-lasting joint pain. Those at highest risk for adverse health effects include older adults, newborns who contract the infection at birth, and people with heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure, per the CDC. Deaths from the virus are very rare.
In late 2013, the first local cases were documented in Caribbean countries, which then led to the virus spreading throughout the Americas, the CDC stated. Treatment and prevention For those who have been exposed and have symptoms, a blood test can confirm the presence of chikungunya or other similar viruses.
People who are infected and experience symptoms should rest, stay hydrated with fluids and take over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or paracetamol, to relieve and reduce fever, according to the CDC. People who are traveling to countries where the virus is prevalent can reduce their risk by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and staying indoors or in screened areas.
Added the doctor, 'The vaccine is being fast-tracked, which for me means I would give it to those most at risk first, while watching post-marketing studies over next year.' For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
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