Valneva’s Chikungunya Vaccine Use Suspended in the U.S. Following Safety Concerns
American health authorities have temporarily halted the use of Valneva’s Ixchiq, an anti-chikungunya vaccine, among older adults. This decision mirrors actions taken by French and European regulatory bodies after reports of adverse events, including two suspicious deaths on Reunion Island, a French overseas department.
The Official Announcement
The Franco-Austrian laboratory Valneva issued a statement confirming the recommendations from U.S. health agencies. The American Health Agency Food and Drug Governance (FDA) and the American Centers for the Control and Prevention of Diseases (CDC) have recommended (…) to suspend the use of the living vaccine attenuated at a single dose against the Chikungunya of Valneva, Ixchiq, in the elderly,
the statement read.
Global Regulatory Response
The FDA and CDC’s decision followed similar actions by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the French Ministry of Health.These agencies responded to reports of serious side effects on Reunion Island, which is currently grappling with a significant chikungunya outbreak.
Did You know?
Chikungunya is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever and severe joint pain. The name “chikungunya” comes from a Kimakonde word, meaning “to walk bent over,” referring to the stooped posture developed consequently of the joint pain.
Details of the Adverse Events
The reported side effects include two deaths that are currently under inquiry.One case involves an octogenarian who developed encephalitis, which French authorities suspect may be linked to the vaccine. The other involves a septuagenarian with parkinson’s disease who experienced fatal complications; the connection to the vaccination is less clear.
age Restrictions Vary
While French and European authorities have suspended vaccination for those over 65, U.S. authorities have adopted a stricter approach, suspending its use for individuals over 60.
Valneva’s Perspective
Despite the suspensions, Valneva maintains confidence in its vaccine.Valneva continues to estimate that the benefit/risk ratio of the vaccine is positive for the vast majority of people potentially exposed to the disease,
the company stated. They also emphasized that a definitive causal link between the vaccine and the reported adverse effects has not been established.
Pro Tip: Mosquito Bite Prevention
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Treat clothing and gear with permethrin.
- Take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors.
Impact on Reunion Island
The suspension of the vaccine poses challenges for Reunion Island, where a chikungunya epidemic has already affected tens of thousands of people and resulted in twelve deaths.
