A health department official announced on Wednesday that a four-year-old girl in Gujarat has died from the Chandipura virus, marking the first confirmed fatality in the state. Additionally, 14 other deaths are suspected to be linked to the virus, which has been reported in 29 cases so far.
“As of Wednesday, 15 deaths have been reported out of which one is confirmed due to the Chandipura virus while others are suspected but symptoms are all similar in all cases so it’s assumed that all cases are the same,” a heath department official said.
1. What is Chandipura virus and what causes it?
Microscopic infectious agents, known as viruses, exist in various shapes and forms, causing diseases in living organisms. The recent coronavirus outbreak has heightened public awareness of these threats. The Chandipura virus, also known as Chandipura vesiculovirus (CHPV), is a rare but serious pathogen belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family, which includes the rabies virus.
First identified in 1965 in Maharashtra’s Chandipura village, it primarily infects children and is associated with outbreaks of acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies, and the disease is most commonly found in rural areas of India and Southeast Asia.
Infection with Chandipura virus causes Chandipura encephalitis, a serious illness with a rapid onset of symptoms. These symptoms include:
- High fever
- Severe headaches
- Frequent vomiting
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Altered mental status
- Coma (in severe cases)
The virus can cause permanent brain damage and even death, particularly in severe cases.
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment or widely available vaccine for Chandipura virus infection. Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and hopefully improve the disease outcome. This may involve hospitalisation, intravenous fluids, medication to manage symptoms like fever and seizures, and respiratory support if needed.
2. What new?
A recent outbreak of Chandipura virus in Gujarat, India, has caused significant concern. As of July 2024, reports indicate:
A confirmed death of a 4-year-old girl from the virus.
The spread of the outbreak across several districts in Gujarat, raising fears of further transmission.
An additional 14 suspected deaths are potentially linked to Chandipura virus infection.
A total of 29 reported cases with symptoms suggestive of the virus.
Health officials are urging caution and implementing measures to control the outbreak, including increased surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and potential vector control measures to target sandflies.
Highlighting the first confirmed death, Raj Sutariya, the chief district health officer (CDHO) of Sabarkantha, said to Indian Express: “The sample of a four-year-old girl from Aravalli, who died at the Himatnagar civil hospital in Sabarkantha district (earlier this month), tested positive for Chandipura virus. This was the first death (confirmed) due to Chandipura virus infection in the state. Three other samples of suspected victims tested along hers are, however, negative.”
3. Brief history
The Chandipura virus was first identified in 1965, and since then, there have been several outbreaks in India, particularly affecting children. Here’s a brief timeline:
1965: The virus is first identified in Chandipura village, Maharashtra, India.
2003-2004: A major outbreak in Central India, including Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, results in hundreds of cases and deaths, primarily among children.
2009-2011: Sporadic cases and deaths continue to occur in India, particularly in Gujarat.
2010: An outbreak in Gujarat’s Kheda, Vadodara, and Panchmahal districts claims several lives.
2024 (present): A new outbreak emerges in Gujarat, raising concerns about the virus’s potential spread.
These outbreaks highlight the ongoing threat posed by the Chandipura virus, particularly in vulnerable populations like children living in rural areas. Research into the virus and development of more accessible prevention and treatment options remain crucial.
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