Chandipura Virus Infection: Symptoms, causes, how to protect children

Chandipura Virus Infection: It is notorious for causing severe and often fatal encephalitis, especially in children (Image: Canva)

Four children succumbed to a suspected Chandipura virus infection at the civil hospital in Gujarat's Sabarkantha district between June 27 and July 10. Two more children, displaying similar symptoms, are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

The Chandipura virus, a member of the Vesiculovirus genus within the Rhabdoviridae family, is transmitted primarily by sandflies, along with mosquitoes and ticks. This virus is notorious for causing severe and often fatal encephalitis, especially in children. Awareness about the virus, its symptoms, and preventive measures is critical for managing and controlling its spread. Additional cases have been reported in Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance and proactive measures to combat this deadly virus.

What is Chandipura Virus?

As a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, the Chandipura virus (CHPV) is closely linked to the viruses that cause vesicular stomatitis and rabies. It was initially discovered in 1965 in Maharashtra, in village Chandipura. Acute encephalitis, a brain inflammation caused by the virus, is known to be lethal, particularly in young patients, says Dr Shreya Dubey, Consultant - Neonatology & Paediatrics, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.

Symptoms of Chandipura Virus Infection

The symptoms of Chandipura virus infection appear suddenly and can progress rapidly. Dr Dubey lists the following key symptoms:

High fever: One of the most frequent early symptoms is a sudden onset of high fever.

Severe headache: Patients frequently report experiencing severe headaches.

Vomiting: Another early warning indication is vomiting frequently.

Convulsions and seizures: Children may have convulsions and seizures in extreme circumstances.

Unconsciousness: Affected people may become unconscious as the condition worsens.

Neurological symptoms: These encompass drowsiness, agitation, and confusion.

Dr Dubey also suggests some steps to keep in mind for children

Preventive measures are essential to shield children against Chandipura virus infection due to the disease's severity and quick progression. Here are some actions to think about:

Avoid sandfly bites: Preventive measures are essential to shield children against Chandipura virus infection due to the disease's severity and quick progression. Here are some actions to think about:

Use bed nets: Make sure kids sleep beneath bed nets, ideally treated with insecticide, particularly in regions where sandflies are prevalent.

Maintain clean surroundings: Remove any potential sandfly breeding grounds, such as heaps of trash, stagnant water, and decomposing organic waste. Reduce sandfly habitats by routinely cleaning and disinfecting the surroundings surrounding your house.

Seek prompt medical attention:

Early symptoms: Get medical help right once if a kid has symptoms such a high temperature, headache, or vomiting.

Follow medical advice: Comply with the advice given by medical professionals regarding treatment and prevention.

Need for a licensed vaccine:

A licensed vaccine is the need of the hour to prevent Chandipura virus infection. The development and widespread availability of a vaccine could significantly reduce the incidence of this deadly disease and protect vulnerable populations, especially children.