Nilam Patel, additional director of the Gujarat Health Department, said that as of July 24, 23 cases of the Chandipura virus had been confirmed (1✔ ✔Reliable source
Chandipura Vesiculovirus
) had been detected across the state, resulting in 10 confirmed deaths. Patel mentioned that a total of 121 symptomatic cases had been reported, with 6 cases originating from outside Gujarat – 3 from Rajasthan, 2 from Madhya Pradesh and 1 from Maharashtra. Due to preparedness measures, including mobilisation of doctors and field staff, the surveillance efforts are effective. In total, there have been 40 deaths, with 10 cases confirmed as Chandipura cases. Patel emphasised that the patients are being hospitalised for early diagnosis to reduce the mortality rate.
Chandipura virus: new data
Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, responsible for causing sporadic cases and outbreaks predominantly in western, central and southern regions of India, especially during the Monsoon season. It is transmitted mainly through vectors such as sand flies and ticks.
The virus predominantly affects children under 15 years of age and presents as a febrile illness that can lead to severe neurological symptoms and, in some cases, death. Currently, there is no specific treatment for CHPV; management is symptomatic and focuses on early diagnosis and supportive care. Preventive measures, such as vector control, hygiene and public awareness, are key to combat the spread of the virus.
In response to the outbreak, the Chief Minister held a meeting and decided to implement vector control measures. Malathion powder spraying has been carried out in mud houses in over 4,300 villages, and intra-residual spraying has been carried out in over 1,000 villages. In addition, 200,000 houses have been sprayed with malathion powder to control sandflies. Surveillance efforts have been intensified.
Gujarat has also set up a Biotechnology Research Centre equipped with testing facilities. Patel confirmed that 41 patients are currently hospitalised, with 23 confirmed cases in Chandipura.
The disease primarily affects children under 15 years of age and can present with febrile symptoms, which can sometimes be fatal. While there is no specific treatment for CHPV, symptomatic management and timely referral of suspected patients Acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) cases to designated facilities may improve outcomes.
Advertisement
Since the beginning of June 2024, Gujarat has reported 78 cases of AES in children under 15 years of age, 75 from 21 districts/corporations of Gujarat, 2 from Rajasthan and 1 from Madhya Pradesh. Of these, 28 cases resulted in death. Among the 76 samples tested at NIV Pune, 9 were found positive for CHPV, all from Gujarat, along with 5 associated deaths.
Reference:
- Chandipura Vesiculovirus – (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandipura_vesiculovirus)
Source-Medindia
