Post-Epidemic Chikungunya Disease on Reunion Island: Course of Rheumatic Manifestations and Associated Factors over a 15-Month Period
2009

Long-Term Effects of Chikungunya Virus on Joint Health

Sample size: 147 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Sissoko Daouda, Malvy Denis, Ezzedine Khaled, Renault Philippe, Moscetti Frederic, Ledrans Martine, Pierre Vincent

Primary Institution: Institut de Veille Sanitaire, La Réunion, France

Hypothesis

What are the long-term rheumatic outcomes of Chikungunya virus infection?

Conclusion

The study found that 57% of participants experienced persistent rheumatic symptoms 15 months after Chikungunya virus infection.

Supporting Evidence

  • 84 out of 147 participants reported rheumatic symptoms at 15 months.
  • 63% of those with symptoms reported permanent trouble.
  • Age ≥45 years was a significant predictor of nonrecovery.

Takeaway

Many people who get sick from the Chikungunya virus can still have joint pain and problems long after they feel better.

Methodology

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with participants interviewed by telephone about their health 15 months after infection.

Potential Biases

Self-reported data may lead to recall bias regarding symptoms.

Limitations

The study may not be generalizable due to the exclusion of individuals without phone contact and those under 16 years old.

Participant Demographics

The study included 69% women and 31% men, with a mean age of 52 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.002

Confidence Interval

95% CI 1.7–9.7

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pntd.0000389

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