Clinical Features, Management, and Long-Term Outcomes of Chikungunya in Adult Populations: A Scoping Review

Chikungunya poses a major clinical and public health challenge due to its wide range of manifestations and, consequently, frequent misdiagnoses. This pitfall may lead to compromised long-term outcomes when treatment is inadequate. This scoping review aims to summarize the clinical features, current management strategies, and long-term outcomes of chikungunya infection in adults. The review was designed and reported according to Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidance and the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) framework. Three main databases—PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Wiley Online Library—were searched, and additional gray literature from international and national health agencies was consulted. Nineteen studies met inclusion criteria. Chikungunya in adults commonly begins as an acute febrile illness with prominent musculoskeletal symptoms, but may evolve into a chronic, disabling disease, substantially impairing quality of life. Treatment is largely symptomatic for the acute phase, whereas chronic infections require long-term multidisciplinary care, supported by preventive measures through public health interventions. In summary, while most patients recover with appropriate care, a significant number of patients experience persistent sequelae requiring rehabilitation, continued clinical follow-up, and targeted preventive and public health actions.