Study warns: Chikungunya complications deadly 3 months post-infection

Climate change and other factors are driving an increase in vector-borne illnesses worldwide, prompting the need for a deeper understanding of their long-term effects to develop effective prevention strategies. Chikungunya, an emerging threat, continues to pose deadly implications even after three months of recovery from the infection, according to recent research published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases.

Chikungunya virus, an arthropod-borne alphavirus transmitted by mosquitoes, is notorious for causing severe pain and joint issues in the body. Approximately 60 percent of infected individuals develop chronic arthritis as a result of the virus. Transmission occurs primarily through the mosquito vectors Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The virus can lead to severe complications, particularly in the elderly, and currently, there is no specific treatment available, although efforts to develop a vaccine are underway in the US.

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The new research published in The Lancet reveals that individuals infected with the chikungunya virus remain at an increased risk of death from its complications for up to three months after infection. Researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) analyzed nearly 150,000 recorded chikungunya infections using data from the 100 million Brazilian Cohort. The study found that during the first week of infection, patients were eight times more likely to die than unexposed individuals. Even three months post-infection, they were still twice as likely to die from complications, including cardiovascular conditions like ischemic heart disease, metabolic disorders, and kidney diseases, regardless of age or sex.

What needs to be done to avoid chikungunya complications

Dr. Nidhin Mohan, Consultant Internal Medicine at Narayana Health City, Bangalore, underscores the lingering risks following Chikungunya infection, urging vigilance and proactive management. While the acute phase subsides, complications such as arthritis, neurological issues, and potential mortality can persist for up to three months. Dr. Mohan emphasizes monitoring symptoms closely, advocating rest, hydration, and pain management while promptly seeking medical advice for any concerning developments. Preventative measures like eliminating mosquito breeding sites and using repellents remain crucial in mitigating risks.

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Highlighting the heightened vulnerability of elderly patients and those with pre-existing health conditions like diabetes and hypertension, Dr. Mohan stresses the necessity for extended monitoring, unlike with dengue and other viral fevers. Although historically Chikungunya has low mortality rates, recent studies indicate a potential risk of death beyond the initial three-month period, necessitating further research.

Echoing these concerns, Dr. Ashutosh Shukla, Medical Advisor and Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Max Hospital, Gurugram, emphasizes the potential complications of Chikungunya, particularly among vulnerable groups. Stressing the persistent risk of death for up to three months post-infection, Dr. Shukla advocates preventive measures such as insect repellent use, protective clothing, and indoor stays during peak mosquito activity. Adequate hydration, rest, and prompt medical attention for severe symptoms are crucial for managing the infection effectively.