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The Pune-based National Institute of Virology (NIV) has confirmed the tragic death of a four-year-old girl due to Chandipura virus in Gujarat. The incident is part of a larger outbreak, taking the death toll in suspected cases to 15 and a total of 29 cases reported in nearly a dozen districts. Of these, 26 cases are from Gujarat, two from Rajasthan and one from Madhya Pradesh. Of the 15 deaths, 13 are from Gujarat and one each from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
What is Chandipura virus?
Chandipura virus (CHPV) belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and causes sporadic cases and outbreaks in western, central and southern regions of India, especially during the monsoon season. The virus is transmitted by vectors such as sand flies and ticks. Currently, vector control, maintaining hygiene and raising awareness are the only measures available to combat the disease. The virus mainly affects children below 15 years of age, presenting with a febrile illness that can sometimes lead to death.
Symptoms and transmission
Chandipura virus causes flu-like symptoms, including fever and acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). The virus is a member of the Vesiculovirus genus within the Rhabdoviridae family. It spreads primarily through vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies. An outbreak in central India during 2003–2004 resulted in mortality rates of up to 56–75% in Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat, with typical encephalitis symptoms.
Treatment
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for Chandipura virus. Early diagnosis and supportive treatment are important. According to a 2014 document on ‘Epidemiology and Management of Chandipura Encephalitis’ by the Government of Gujarat, management includes circulatory support through the airway, breathing and, if necessary, oxygen therapy and ventilation. It also includes managing fluid and electrolyte balance, hyperpyrexia (extremely high body temperature), raised intracranial pressure and seizures, as well as preventing secondary bacterial infections.
In response to the current outbreak, the Union Health Ministry reviewed Chandipura virus cases and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome cases in Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh with experts. The review aimed to enhance understanding and improve measures to tackle the spread and impact of the virus.
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