Gujarat Confirms First Case Of Chandipura Virus: All About Symptoms, Who Is At Risk & How It Spreads

The Chandipura virus is transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes, sandflies and ticks; and is a member of the Vesiculovirus genus of the family Rhabdoviridae.

Gujarat on Wednesday confirmed the first fatality due to Chandipura virus as the National Institute of Virology confirmed that a 4-year-old girl died of the infection.

Earlier on Tuesday, six children died due to the suspected virus infection in the state since July 10, state Health Minister Rushikesh Patel said. 

Samples collected from 12 patients were sent to Pune's National Institute of Virology (NIV) for confirmation.

What Is Chandipura Virus?

The Chandipura virus or Chandipura vesiculovirus (CHPV) is transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes, sandflies and ticks. 

The pathogen is a member of the Vesiculovirus genus of the family Rhabdoviridae, which also includes the rabies virus. 

The virus was first identified in 1965, after an outbreak in Chandipura village, Maharashtra. After its discovery, no cases of human involvement or any outbreak were reported for around two decades. 

In 2003-2004 the outbreak in Central India witnessed, where a total of 322 child deaths from Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat were reported.

In majority of the cases in 2003-2004, mortality was reported within 24 hours of the commencement of symptoms, a report in the National Library of Medicine said.

Symptoms

The virus causes fever, headache, vomiting, convulsions and symptoms like flu and acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). However, the virus is not contagious.

The symptoms typically begin with high fever, headaches, vomiting and progressing to seizures and encephalitis. 

There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for Chandipura virus infection. Due to the lack of specific antiviral treatments, early diagnosis and supportive care are crucial.

As soon as someone notices any symptoms of the virus, it is advisable that they visit the emergency or seek medical attention.

Who Is At Risk?

Transmitted primarily through sandflies, Chandipura virus is known for causing acute encephalitis, especially among children. 

Experts attribute the reason behind its prevalence among children to their immune systems, which are not fully developed, making them more vulnerable. 

Moreover,  their bodies have fewer antibodies and less ability to fight off new pathogens, leading to a higher susceptibility than adults, who have a mature immune system. 

How Does It Spread?

Chandipura virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies (genus Phlebotomus). The primary mode of its transmission is through sandfly bites.

Children, who remain outdoors, are more likely to be bitten by infected sandflies, increasing their risk of contracting the virus.