Chandipura Virus Outbreak Claims 15 Children in Gujarat, 29 Cases Reported

Fifteen children have tragically succumbed to a suspected viral infection, identified as the Chandipura virus, in Gujarat since July 10. The total reported cases have now reached 29, prompting concerns among health officials in the state. Rushikesh Patel, the state’s health minister, has acknowledged the severity of the situation.

According to a health department official quoted by The Hindu, “As of Wednesday, 15 deaths have been reported, with one confirmed as due to the Chandipura virus. Similar symptoms in all cases suggest that the remaining deaths are also linked to the virus.”

The number of suspected cases has been steadily rising, with current patients under treatment including three from Aravalli, one from Mahisagar, and one from Kheda. Additionally, two patients from Rajasthan and one from Madhya Pradesh are also receiving medical attention.

The Chandipura virus, named after a village in Maharashtra, belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and primarily spreads through sandflies and certain mosquito species, notably Aedes aegypti. It was first identified in 1965 and has sporadically caused outbreaks across India, particularly affecting children under 15 years old.

Symptoms include sudden onset of flu-like illness such as high fever, seizures, diarrhea, vomiting, and in severe cases, may progress to coma and death due to encephalitis. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine available, so supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications is crucial.

In response to the outbreak, Gujarat health authorities have conducted extensive screenings across residential zones, reaching over 44,000 individuals in 8,600 houses. Intensive surveillance and community advisories have been issued to healthcare facilities to promptly identify and treat suspected cases.

Efforts to control the spread include mosquito control measures like widespread dusting and urging farmers to use insecticides. The public has been advised to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist.

The World Health Organization recognized the Chandipura virus as a priority disease in 2017, highlighting its potential threat and the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness in affected regions.