The fight against chikungunya virus in Kenya, particularly along coastal towns, has suffered a major setback after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) immediately suspended the license for Ixchiq, the first preventive vaccine for the disease. This decision follows reports of serious adverse events linked to the vaccine.

• Four new cases of severe side effects, including three involving patients aged between 70 and 82, led to the suspension of Ixchiq's license.
• A French pharmaceutical company confirmed the suspension and has been ordered to stop shipping and selling the vaccine in the U.S.
• In June, 25 people in Mombasa tested positive for chikungunya, with Mvita, Nyali, Likoni, and Kisauni sub-counties being the most affected areas in Kenya.