The monsoons have triggered an unexpected health emergency in rural parts of Gujarat, with several children infected by the Chandipura virus (CHPV). The National Institute of Virology (NIV) has confirmed that a 4-year-old child has succumbed to CHPV. According to The Hindu on July 18th, the death toll has risen to 15 out of 29 suspected cases. These cases have been reported in districts including Sabarkantha, Aravali, Mahisagar, Kheda, Mehsana, Rajkot, and Morbi. Additionally, Gujarat health officials have noted two suspected cases, including one death, in Rajasthan and one suspected case in Madhya Pradesh.
What is CHPV ?
The Chandipura virus, also known as encephalitis syndrome, is transmitted by vector species such as Phlebotomine sandflies, Phlebotomus papatasi, and certain mosquito species like Aedes aegypti, which is also a vector for dengue. CHPV belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, which includes other viruses like the lyssavirus that causes rabies. It primarily affects children between the ages of 9 months and 14 years, leading to brain inflammation.
Dr. Abhay Shah, a senior pediatrician and former president of the Academy of Pediatricians in Gujarat, spoke to Health on Air to explain the impact of the Chandipura virus and the importance of early intervention.
“Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, and headaches. If left untreated within 36 hours, the virus can progress to seizures, unconsciousness, and coma. Sadly, children who don’t respond to treatment within 72 hours face a high risk of death. When a child has a high fever that does not respond to paracetamol or appears unusually uncomfortable, especially during the monsoon, this disease should be suspected. Parents should immediately consult the nearest doctor to prevent further complications. The mortality rate for CHPV is multifactorial, ranging between 56 and 75 percent,” said Dr. Abhay Shah.
The spread of this disease is more prevalent in rural areas and regions with muddy houses. The virus significantly impacts the poor and underprivileged populations living in these areas. Nutrition plays a crucial role in recovery from CHPV, as patients need to consume plenty of fluids and maintain a nutritious diet to improve. “CHPV is more serious in a malnourished child,” said Dr. Abhay Shah.
Source – The National center for Biotechnology Information
History of CHPV
CHPV has shown persistent circulation in India since 1965 when the first case was found in Nagpur, followed by cases in Warangal and Andhra Pradesh in 1997 and 2002. Since then, CHPV has been dominant in regions of Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, with significant outbreaks and high case fatality rates, particularly in children. According to the National Library of Medicine, the existence of this virus is recorded in the Indian subcontinent (India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal) and also in African countries like Nigeria and Senegal.
Actions taken by local authorities
With a sudden surge in Chandipura virus cases, state officials have been on high alert. Dr. Rajesh Sutariya, the Central District Health Officer of Sabarkantha district, where most cases are found, said, “So far, we have surveyed 5,000 houses, and anyone showing symptoms of high fever, vomiting, headache, or seizures is sent to Himatnagar Civil Hospital. There, our paediatricians evaluate these cases, and if they suspect CHPV, we send samples to NIV Pune. We are also undertaking activities like dusting and spraying in and around the areas where cases are being reported. For dusting, we are mixing calcium carbonate with 5% malathion. Additionally, we are using social media, newspapers, and television programs to raise awareness about the Chandipura virus.”
How to take better care
Use mosquito repellent and mosquito nets
Eat lots of nutritious food
Keep yourself hydrated
Consult the nearest doctor
