Vaccine to be used only when there is a significant chikungunya risk and after careful consideration of the benefits and risks 

EMA’s safety committee (PRAC) has completed its review of Ixchiq, a live attenuated chikungunya vaccine, following reports of serious side effects.

The temporary restriction on vaccinating people aged 65 years and above, which was put in place during the review, will now be lifted.

However, PRAC concluded that, for people of all ages, the vaccine should only be given when there is a significant risk of chikungunya infection and after a careful consideration of the benefits and risks.

Serious side effects with the vaccine were reported mainly in people 65 years and older and in those with several underlying medical conditions. These side effects led to a worsening of the patients’ medical conditions or a deterioration in their general health, in some cases resulting in hospitalisation.

While most serious side effects occurred in older people, Ixchiq is…