Chandipura Virus Wrath In Gujarat: What’s The Update?

Gujarat has been combating a virus that has proven critical for the state to contain. The virus is known as the Chandipura virus (CHPV). On Monday, 15 July 2024, the Gujarat government shared shocking news that six children had died of suspected CHVP in the state since 10 July 2024.  As of now, 12 CHPV suspected cases have been reported. 

Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel addressed the matter on Monday, 15 July 2024, saying nobody needs to be scared, but “we need to be cautious.” Chandipura is not a new virus, “In 1965, the first case was registered in Maharashtra. Cases of this virus are registered in Gujarat every year,” he said.   

The Gujarat Health Minister also talked about the cases in the state and said, “Four of these 12 patients are from Sabarkantha district, three from Aravalli, and one each from Mahisagar and Kheda. Two patients are from Rajasthan, and one is from Madhya Pradesh. They received treatment in Gujarat.” This virus mainly affects children aged 9 months to 14 years, Mr Rushikesh Patel shared. 

What Is CHPV And How Is It Transmitted? 

CHPV is a pathogen from the Rhabdoviridae family. Sand Flies like Phlebotomine and Phlebotomus papatasi and mosquitos like Aedes Aegypti are considered vectors of CHPV. The virus can be transmitted through bites. CHPV can reach the central nervous system and cause inflammation of the brain’s active tissues.

Symptoms Of CHPV infection

The CHPV infection causes flu-like symptoms, such as fever, body aches, and headache. Some Indian studies have reported other symptoms like respiratory distress, bleeding tendencies, and anaemia. This virus can lead to hospitalisation within 24-48 hours. 

How To Manage CHPV?

Disease progression is rapid, making it harder to manage the virus. Currently, there is no therapy or vaccine to treat CHPV, so people can only manage the symptoms. Preventing brain inflammation is also important to manage this virus.