Three children have tragically lost their lives due to the Chandipura virus in Gujarat over the past 10 days. State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya confirmed that six other children have tested positive for the virus and are currently receiving treatment. Health officials identified 17 suspected cases among children, with 10 testing negative and six testing positive for the virus.
The recent cases mark an escalation from the initial cluster reported in Panchmahal district, where two children succumbed to the virus. Another fatality occurred when a six-year-old child from Rajasthan, receiving treatment in Sabarkantha district, also passed away. State health authorities have intensified surveillance efforts in affected areas, conducting door-to-door screenings and blood sample collections from suspected patients.
The Chandipura virus, a vector-borne rhabdovirus, primarily affects children and is transmitted through infected sand fly bites. It can lead to acute encephalitis syndrome, characterized by high fever, vomiting, and neurological complications. With no specific antiviral treatment available, early medical intervention is crucial. Parents are advised to seek immediate medical help if their children exhibit symptoms like sudden fever, vomiting, convulsions, or altered consciousness.
Preventive measures include reducing exposure to sand flies through insecticide spraying, maintaining clean surroundings, and using protective measures like mosquito nets. This outbreak follows a previous large-scale Chandipura virus outbreak in Gujarat in 2024, prompting heightened surveillance efforts during the current monsoon season.
