The number of suspected Chandipura Viral Encephalitis (CHPV) cases in Gujarat has increased to 20. This includes two deaths in Ahmedabad city. There are also 35 people with CHPV symptoms in various civil hospitals across districts.
Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel has started preventive measures in response to the outbreak. More than 50,000 people have been checked. All district and rural hospitals have been told to send samples of suspected cases to NIV for more tests.
Health officials expect more cases in the future as more confirmations are likely from NIV. This is not the first time the Chandipura virus has broken out in India. There were outbreaks in 2003-04 in parts of central India. These areas included Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh. These outbreaks resulted in the deaths of over 300 children. Here is everything you need to know about Chandipura Viral Encephalitis (CHPV).
What is CHPV and how is it transmitted?
Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a part of the Rhabdoviridae family, which includes the rabies virus. It spreads through sandflies and mosquitoes like Aedes aegypti, which also spreads dengue. The virus lives in the salivary glands of these insects and can spread to humans or pets through bites.
This infection can cause encephalitis, or swelling of active brain tissues. The Chandipura virus, a member of the Vesiculovirus genus, was found in 1965 in the blood of two people with fever near Nagpur, Maharashtra.
The virus spreads through female sandflies, which are common at the start of the monsoon. Sergentomyia sandflies help spread the virus, and Aedes aegypti is very susceptible and effective in lab conditions.
Chandipura infection leads to encephalitis, or brain tissue swelling. But no virus has been isolated from mosquitoes.
The state government has reported 14 deaths from suspected CHPV infection so far. This includes one confirmed case in Aravalli district, two more deaths in Morbi, and one death each in Surendranagar and Rajkot.
Know the Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention of Chandipura Virus
Common symptoms of the virus include a quick start of fever, throwing up, changes in mental state, seizures, diarrhea, and signs of meningeal irritation. The virus mainly affects children under 15, especially in rural areas. Most children affected see their condition worsen quickly, with deaths happening within 48 hours of being admitted to the hospital. Symptoms include:
- Fever starting suddenly
- Throwing up
- Changes in mental state
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Neurological issues like trouble speaking, loss of balance, and changes in vision
- Meningeal irritation shown by symptoms like headaches, a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and seizures
There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for the Chandipura virus right now. Early diagnosis and supportive care like managing breathing, balancing fluids, and preventing secondary bacterial infections are key for patient management.
Prevention strategies include controlling vectors, finding and getting rid of sandfly breeding sites, and using protective measures to prevent sandfly bites. These measures include wearing protective clothing and using repellents and netting.
Environmental control, like proper waste disposal and sanitation, is also key to prevent the virus from spreading. Public health authorities need to take proactive steps to stop the virus from spreading and provide the necessary support and resources to areas affected.
Number of Chandipura Virus Outbreaks in India
The infection mainly affects people, particularly children. It has been found in occasional outbreaks across India and other countries in Asia and Africa.
In 2003-04, central India experienced severe outbreaks. These resulted in the death of 322 children. Andhra Pradesh reported 183 deaths, Maharashtra had 115, and Gujarat recorded 24. The death rates were extremely high, with 56% in Andhra Pradesh and 75% in Gujarat.