If you’re planning a trip to India or Pakistan, your checklist probably includes booking flights, arranging accommodations, and packing your bags—but have you thought about your health? In particular, have you considered your risk for chikungunya? This mosquito-borne virus is spreading more frequently throughout South Asia, and it’s more than just an inconvenience—it can cause debilitating joint pain that lasts for weeks or even months.
At Olympia Plaza Pharmacy in Los Angeles, we want to make sure your travels are memorable for the right reasons. Here’s what you need to know about chikungunya and how to protect yourself before your trip.
Chikungunya (pronounced chik-en-gun-ya) is a viral disease spread by infected mosquitoes—specifically the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters and thrive in warm, humid climates like those found in much of India and Pakistan, especially during and after the monsoon season (June through September).
High fever
Severe joint pain (often in the hands, feet, ankles, and knees)
Muscle aches and fatigue
Rash and headache
Nausea or vomiting (less common)
The illness typically begins 3–7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. While most people recover fully, joint pain can persist for weeks or even months, particularly in older adults or individuals with pre-existing joint conditions. Unlike the flu, chikungunya doesn’t spread from person to person—it’s only transmitted via mosquito bites.
Chikungunya outbreaks have been reported across both urban and rural regions in South Asia. In India, regions such as Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat have seen recurring outbreaks. In Pakistan, provinces like Sindh and Punjab have also reported rising case numbers in recent years.
Unlike dengue and malaria—which many travelers have heard of—chikungunya is often overlooked. However, it poses a real threat, particularly if you’re spending extended time outdoors, visiting family in suburban areas, or staying in places with limited mosquito control.
Until recently, there was no approved vaccine for chikungunya—but that’s now changed. A newly approved vaccine, available in the U.S., offers effective protection for travelers headed to high-risk areas.
It’s a single-dose vaccine, offering long-lasting protection.
It’s approved for adults 18 and older, especially those traveling to outbreak-prone regions.
It’s recommended at least 2–4 weeks before travel to ensure your body develops immunity.
While it may not be necessary for all travelers, it’s strongly encouraged for those spending time in rural areas, engaging in outdoor activities, or staying for extended periods.
The CDC and travel health experts recommend the vaccine for:
Long-term travelers (2+ weeks) to India, Pakistan, and other chikungunya-prone areas
Elderly travelers and those with arthritis or joint conditions
Individuals staying in rural areas or with limited access to air conditioning
Volunteers, humanitarian workers, and medical professionals
People who will be spending time outdoors during monsoon season
Even if your risk seems low, it’s always better to be safe than sorry—especially with a virus that offers no treatment other than rest and pain relief.
If you’re looking for the chikungunya vaccine in Los Angeles, you don’t have to search far. Olympia Plaza Pharmacy is proud to offer travel health services, including consultations and access to recommended vaccines for international travel.
Personalized travel vaccine consultations
The latest updates on chikungunya outbreaks and vaccine availability
Convenient scheduling and same-day appointments when available
Guidance on how to stay safe while traveling—including mosquito prevention tips and over-the-counter product recommendations
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Olympia Plaza Pharmacy is your go-to source for preparing safely and confidently for your trip to India, Pakistan, or anywhere else abroad.
Even if you’ve been vaccinated, it’s important to take additional steps to avoid mosquito bites during your travels:
Apply insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially at dawn and dusk.
Use mosquito nets if you’re staying in non-air-conditioned or open-air accommodations.
Stay in rooms with screens and avoid standing water (where mosquitoes breed).
Consider travel-sized mosquito repellents, which we carry at the pharmacy.
A combination of vaccination and mosquito prevention is your best defense against chikungunya.
If you’re heading to India or Pakistan, don’t overlook the risk of chikungunya. At Olympia Plaza Pharmacy in Los Angeles, we provide personalized travel health consultations, including guidance on the chikungunya vaccine and other preventative care.
Stop by or call us at to book your travel vaccine consultation. Safe travels start here—with protection that goes beyond the basics.
