Bavarian Nordic, a Danish biotechnology company specializing in vaccine development, was on 28 February 2025 granted marketing authorization in the EU for their chikungunya vaccine, VIMKUNYA®.
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. The disease causes symptoms such as high fever, rash, headache, and severe joint pain, which can persist for months or even years in some cases. While chikungunya is rarely fatal, its long-lasting effects can severely impact quality of life. The virus has spread to more than 110 countries, particularly affecting tropical and subtropical regions.
The authorization covers active immunization against the chikungunya virus in individuals aged 12 and older. This approval marks the first chikungunya vaccine authorized in Europe for this age group and follows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval earlier in the month. Bavarian Nordic plans to launch VIMKUNYA® in key European markets in the first half of 2025.
The approval was based on results from two Phase 3 clinical trials involving over 3,500 healthy individuals aged 12 and above. The studies demonstrated that 21 days post-vaccination, up to 97.8% of vaccinated individuals developed neutralizing antibodies, with a rapid immune response initiating within one week.
Paul Chaplin, President and CEO of Bavarian Nordic, highlighted the significance of this approval, stating that it strengthens the company’s position in the travel vaccine sector while offering protection to younger individuals.
With chikungunya cases increasing globally—approximately 480,000 cases and over 200 deaths were reported in 2024 alone—VIMKUNYA® represents a critical advancement in combating this public health threat. The vaccine’s introduction provides a valuable preventive tool for both travelers and residents in affected regions.
I have read that vaccine is only available for dengue. The best way to be safe from these illness is to keep ourselves away from mosquitoes. Clear stagnant water, keep the place and surroundings clean. Installing mosquito nets to the windows and doors is a must. Prevention is better than cure.