Persistence of signs and symptoms 6 months after chikungunya infection in patients from a Public Hospital in Paraguay

Abstract

Introduction: Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) causes a disease with well-documented acute manifestations, but there is limited data on the persistence of symptoms and long-term sequelae.

Objectives: To evaluate the persistence of signs, symptoms, and associated factors in patients with CHIKV infection during a 6-month post-infection follow-up.

Material and Methods: An ambispective cohort study that included confirmed cases of CHIKV reported in April 2023 in Coronel Oviedo, Paraguay. Interviews were conducted at 1, 3 and 6 months post-infection. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, rheumatic, and symptomatic manifestations were analyzed.

Results: 333 participants were enrolled, with 170 patients completing the 6-month follow-up. At 6 months, the following symptoms persisted: back pain (61.2%), arthritis (57.1%), headache (54.1%), fatigue (51.2%), myalgia (49.4%), weakness (47.6%), depression (45.9%), and arthralgia (45.9%). The persistence of arthritis (OR 7.54, p=0.008) and myalgia (OR 3.24, p=0.031) at 6 months was higher in the 36-45 age group.

Conclusions: High persistence of musculoskeletal symptoms and fatigue up to 6 months post-infection, with a decreasing trend but exacerbation of depression. Age between 36-45 years was associated with greater persistence. Comprehensive follow-up protocols, investigation of pathophysiological mechanisms, and strengthening prevention are required, given the individual and socioeconomic impact of the disease.