The Rajasthan government has increased surveillance and preventive actions following the deaths of two children from the state due to the Chandipura virus (CHPV) while receiving treatment in Gujarat hospitals. Health authorities are conducting door-to-door surveys, health camps, and screenings in affected districts to curb the virus spread. The victims, a 6-year-old girl from Ratanpura village in Dungarpur district and a 2-year-old girl from Sirohi district, were confirmed to have contracted the Chandipura virus during their treatment in Gujarat.
Rajasthan’s Health Department has put Dungarpur, Sirohi, and Udaipur districts on high alert after the confirmed cases. Rapid Response Teams are actively monitoring the health of children, especially those under 15 years old. In Dungarpur’s Simalwara block, health officials organized a health camp and conducted a survey covering 75 households to assess the situation. No additional Chandipura virus cases were found during the survey in Ratanpura village.
The 6-year-old girl from Dungarpur developed a fever on July 12, received initial treatment at private hospitals, and was later admitted to Himmatnagar Civil Hospital in Gujarat. Despite efforts, she succumbed to the infection on July 15, with the laboratory confirmation arriving on July 23. Rajasthan health authorities have heightened surveillance in vulnerable areas due to the delayed confirmation. They are conducting extensive surveys, health screenings in schools, and monitoring children with symptoms of acute encephalitis.
To combat the virus, Rapid Response Teams are screening children for warning signs like high fever, vomiting, seizures, altered consciousness, or unusual drowsiness. Parents are advised to seek immediate medical help if their children display any of these symptoms. The Animal Husbandry Department is also involved in preventive measures by conducting spraying and inspection drives in affected villages to control insect vectors linked to the virus.
Health officials have reported three suspected Chandipura virus cases in Rajasthan, with two confirmed fatalities. Surveillance efforts will persist in vulnerable regions, with district administrations collaborating closely with medical teams to detect cases early and prevent further transmission. The state government is urging residents to stay vigilant, maintain cleanliness, safeguard children from insect bites, and promptly report any suspected symptoms to enhance preparedness against this rare yet potentially severe viral infection.
