Long-term chikungunya infection clinical manifestations after an outbreak in Italy: A prognostic cohort study

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2012.04.005
• Publication Date: 2012-04-17T14:38:44Z
• Authors: M.L. Moro; E. Grilli; A. Corvetta; G. Silvi; R. Angelini; F. Mascella; F. Miserocchi; P. Sambo; A.C. Finarelli; V. Sambri; C. Gagliotti; E. Massimiliani; A. Mattivi; A.M. Pierro; P. Macini
• Keywords: myalgia

Following a Chikungunya (CHIKV) outbreak in Italy, a cohort study was conducted to describe the infection long-term clinical course and outcome.Persons identified through active and passive surveillance as confirmed or possible CHIKV cases during the outbreak were enrolled and interviewed by trained public health nurses, between 4-5 and 12-13 months following the acute stage. Patients reporting persistent clinical symptoms were evaluated by rheumatologists. Serum samples were obtained and anti-CHIKV specific IgG and IgM immune responses detected. Only confirmed cases who completed the follow-up were analysed.Out of 250 patients, 66.5% still reported myalgia, asthenia or arthralgia (most frequent sign) after 12 months. Functional ability, measured by the ROAD index, was more impaired for lower extremities (3.75; Inter Quartile Range - IQR 4.4), and the activities of daily living (average 4.2; IQR 5). Variables independently associated with the presence of joint pain at 12-13 months were increasing age, and history of rheumatologic diseases). Elderly, females, and persons with history of rheumatologic diseases had higher anti-CHIKV IgG titres at 12-13 months.This study confirms, in an unselected population, that the long-lasting burden of CHIKV infection is significant.