Chandipura virus spreading its wings: Claims 32 lives, why children are most vulnerable? – Times of India

Gujarat on Sunday reported 13 contemporary suspected Chandipura virus circumstances and 5 fatalities, the state well being division stated. With the most recent additions, the tally of the confirmed and suspected infections within the state has gone as much as 84 up to now, whereas the loss of life toll climbed to 32.

Chandipura virus has a fatality of 56-75%

It’s to be famous that in 2003-2004 comparable outbreaks in Central India witnessed case fatality charges starting from 56-75 per cent.
Chandipura virus was first recognized in India in Maharashtra’s Nagpur district in 1965. A number of outbreaks have been reported in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha and Gujarat prior to now.

Why is it troublesome to establish the an infection?
“Diagnosing CHPV will be difficult because it’s not routinely included in encephalitis syndrome screenings,” Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) Chief Dr Vasant Khalatkar advised TOI.

The illness impacts principally kids beneath 15 years of age

Chandipura virus illness, primarily affecting kids beneath 15 years of age, is a big public well being concern attributable to its potential for extreme outcomes. The virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae household and is transmitted primarily by way of sandflies, significantly Phlebotomus species. This illness is endemic in components of India, with sporadic outbreaks reported primarily in the course of the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons when sandfly populations peak.
Clinically, Chandipura virus illness manifests with a speedy onset of signs, together with excessive fever, headache, convulsions, and altered sensorium. These signs can progress quickly to neurological issues comparable to seizures, coma, and even loss of life, making early prognosis and immediate medical intervention essential. The mortality charge amongst affected kids will be alarmingly excessive, particularly in areas with restricted entry to healthcare services and assets.

Since early June 2024, circumstances of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) have been reported in kids beneath 15 years of age in Gujarat. As of July 20, 2024, a complete of 78 AES circumstances have been reported, with 75 from 21 districts/companies in Gujarat, 2 from Rajasthan, and 1 from Madhya Pradesh. Of those, 28 circumstances have resulted in loss of life. Among the many 76 samples examined at NIV Pune, 9 have been confirmed constructive for Chandipura Virus (CHPV). All 9 CHPV-positive circumstances and 5 related deaths are from Gujarat.

Preventive measures

Staying secure from Chandipura virus primarily includes preventive measures centered on avoiding sandfly bites, the first mode of transmission. Residents in endemic areas, significantly throughout peak transmission seasons just like the monsoon and post-monsoon durations, ought to use insect repellents containing DEET, put on lengthy sleeves and pants, and use mattress nets handled with pesticides. Moreover, lowering outside actions throughout nightfall and daybreak, when sandflies are most energetic, can decrease publicity. Group-wide efforts comparable to insecticide spraying to manage sandfly populations and enhancing consciousness about signs for early medical intervention additionally play vital roles in stopping the unfold of Chandipura virus.
(With inputs from PTI)