Chikungunya Continues to Pose Death Risk for Up to Three Months, Lancet Study Finds

The study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases journal reveals that individuals infected with the chikungunya virus face an elevated risk of death for up to three months after infection. Despite being underreported, there were around five lakh cases and over 400 deaths worldwide in 2023 attributed to chikungunya.

Researchers, including Enny Da Paixao Cruz from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, analyzed data from nearly 150,000 recorded chikungunya infections. Their findings indicate that even after the acute phase of infection ends, which typically lasts for 14 days after symptom onset, individuals remain susceptible to complications. During the first week post-infection, the risk of death is eight times higher compared to unexposed individuals. Even at three months post-infection, the risk remains double that of unexposed individuals.

Patients are particularly vulnerable to cardiovascular conditions like ischemic heart disease, metabolic issues, and kidney diseases, regardless of age or gender.

The researchers highlight the growing threat of chikungunya, noting that diseases transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes are expected to increase due to factors such as climate change, urbanization, and human mobility. Currently, there are no specific medications for preventing or treating chikungunya, although a vaccine was approved by the US FDA in November the previous year.

The study underscores the urgent need for further research to develop effective anti-chikungunya therapeutics and ensure equitable access to vaccines, especially in regions with recurring outbreaks. Additionally, efforts to control the spread of Aedes mosquito populations are crucial in reducing mortality associated with chikungunya.

Read complete study: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(23)00739-9/fulltext