Chikungunya is mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV). The disease, which is rarely fatal, causes fever and debilitating joint pain, muscle pain, joint swelling, headache, nausea, fatigue and rash. In some patients, the chronic joint pain and other symptoms can persist for months or years. There is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for chikungunya viral infections.

Several advanced candidates are either approaching or are undergoing regulatory review.

The unpredictable outbreak patterns of the virus render the conduct of randomized vaccine efficacy studies difficult. Initial vaccine licensure that is based on immunological correlates of protection (CoP) is being explored. These will be followed by post licensure studies to assess effectiveness.  WHO is engaged in discussions to support the use of a CoP as a basis for licensure.