Chikungunya Vaccine and Breastfeeding

Summary of use during lactation

Two forms of chikungunya vaccine are marketed. One is a recombinant vaccine (Vimkunya, Bavarian Nordic) and the other is a live, attenuated vaccine (Ixchiq, Valneva). No information is available on the clinical use of either chikungunya vaccine during breastfeeding, but recombinant vaccines are generally considered to be acceptable during breastfeeding. Wild-type chikungunya virus ribonucleic acid has been detected in breastmilk, but transmission through breastfeeding has not been reported. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend caution in administration of the live, attenuated vaccine to nursing mothers, but it is not contraindicated. Some countries contraindicate the use of the life, attenuated virus in nursing mothers.[1] If the mother requires a chikungunya vaccine, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding, but the recombinant vaccine is preferred.

Drug levels in milk and infant serum

Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date. Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects in breastfed infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects on lactation and breastmilk

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

References

1. Hills SL, Shlim DR, Schofield S, et al. Chikungunya vaccination for travelers: Practical guidance for clinical decision-making. J Travel Med 2025;32:taaf11841263506 PubMed