Gujarat Chandipura Virus Outbreak in Gujarat: First Confirmed Death and Rising Suspected Cases

Gujarat, India – The Chandipura virus outbreak has taken a concerning turn as the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune confirmed the first death of a four-year-old girl due to the virus. The death toll from suspected cases has reached 15, with the virus spreading across almost a dozen districts in the state.

Affected Regions in Gujarat

Cases of Chandipura infection have been reported from various districts, including:

• Sabarkantha
• Aravali
• Mehsana
• Rajkot
• Ahmedabad City
• Morbi
• Panchmahal

Current Situation and Response

As of Wednesday, the State Health Department has reported a total of 29 suspected cases. Tragically, 15 children have died, with one confirmed to be due to the Chandipura virus. Health officials fear that the number of cases will continue to rise as the virus spreads to more districts, including urban areas like Ahmedabad.

“We have launched preventive measures in affected districts, screened 51,725 people, and are conducting dusting and fumigation,” said Health Minister Rushikesh Patel. “All districts have been alerted and pressed into action by the State health department. District and rural hospitals have been asked to send samples to NIV of any suspected case from their respective hospitals,” he added, urging people not to panic and to take necessary precautions.

Understanding Chandipura Virus

The Chandipura virus, a member of the Vesiculovirus genus of the Rhabdoviridae family, causes fever, flu-like symptoms, and acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). It is primarily transmitted by sandflies, but can also spread through mosquitoes and ticks.

The virus was first identified in Chandipura village in Maharashtra in 1965. The 2003-2004 outbreaks in central India saw high fatality rates, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat, with typical encephalitic symptoms.

Symptoms and Transmission

Infection with the Chandipura virus typically begins with a sudden high fever, followed by severe headaches, vomiting, convulsions, and altered mental status. Children are particularly vulnerable to the virus.

Regional Impact

In addition to Gujarat, cases have been reported in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Of the 29 cases, 26 are from Gujarat, two from Rajasthan, and one from Madhya Pradesh. The death toll includes 13 from Gujarat and one each from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Preventive Measures and Public Awareness

Authorities have intensified their efforts to control the outbreak by conducting extensive screenings and fumigations in affected areas. Public awareness campaigns are being carried out to educate people on preventive measures, including avoiding exposure to sandflies and mosquitoes.

Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and are taking steps to prevent further spread of the virus. The public is urged to remain vigilant, follow health advisories, and report any suspected cases to local health authorities.

For more information on the Chandipura virus and updates on the outbreak, visit the official website of the Gujarat Health Department.