In 2005–2006, a major outbreak of chikungunya (CHIK) infection affected the islands of the Indian Ocean, particularly Réunion (where 38.2% of the population was infected). Early studies showed that musculoskeletal symptoms persist for several months, or even longer than a year. These patients, whose symptoms do not subside and for whom the duration, prolongation, or resolution of their symptoms cannot be predicted, face a situation likely to significantly impact their quality of life (QOL) in its physical, psychological, and social dimensions. A study conducted in a cohort of patients with CHIK infection diagnosed in mainland France between 2005 and 2007 aimed to describe the patients’ rheumatological clinical course and their quality of life following the initial episode. Among the patients identified by the CHIK surveillance system, 391 completed a self-administered questionnaire. Two years after the onset of their CHIK infection, 55% of patients had not recovered and had a reduced quality of life, as evidenced by measurement tools—whether generic (SF-36), psychological (GHQ-12), or specific (short EMIR). The probability of recovery was lower among patients over 50 years of age, those with comorbidities (joint disease), and those who experienced a prolonged initial phase. The decline in QoL among non-recovered patients was comparable to that observed in patients with chronic rheumatic diseases (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis), demonstrating the severity of the long-term impact of CHIKV infection on QoL. The study also showed that recovered patients regained a QoL level identical to that of the general population. These results highlight the importance of medical follow-up until full recovery to ensure a return to normal health status and perceived QoL, as well as psychological support to prevent potential depression or anxiety resulting from the chronic course of the disease. (R.A.)