Death Toll Rises To 15 As Chandipura Virus Spreads Across Gujarat; From How It Spreads To Who It Affects, Here’s What It Is

The Chandipura virus has cast a grim shadow over Gujarat, with suspected cases surging across 14 districts and cities. The death toll has climbed to 15, with the National Institute of Virology (NIV) confirming the first fatality from the virus in a 5-year-old girl. The Chandipura virus, a member of the same family as rabies, is transmitted by sandflies (and possibly mosquitoes and ticks) and causes Chandipura encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.  This virus is particularly dangerous for children, leading to fever, headaches, seizures, and potentially coma or death.

Chandipura Virus Spreads Across Gujarat

The confirmed death originated from Sabarkantha district, one of several areas reporting suspected cases. Others include Aravalli, Mehsana, Rajkot, Ahmedabad city, Morbi, Panchmahal, and more. The worrying trend extends beyond Gujarat’s borders, with suspected deaths reported in neighbouring Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Dr. Paresh Shiladariya, civil superintendent at Himmatnagar civil hospital in Sabarkantha, revealed to Deccan Herald that the death of a 5-year-old girl was the first confirmed case attributed to Chandipura vesiculovirus (CHPV). He added that the district itself had reported eight suspected cases, indicating the rapid spread of the virus.

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Geographical Spread Of Suspected Cases

Health officials remain on high alert. With the suspected death toll reaching 14 out of 29 reported cases, authorities are scrambling to contain the outbreak. Notably, this figure encompasses patients from outside Gujarat, including Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

A senior health officer in Gandhinagar disclosed to Deccan Herald that although only one case had been confirmed positive so far, the remaining deaths were suspected to be caused by the Chandipura virus. He added that given the seriousness of the situation, especially among children, they had deployed teams to raise awareness. He further stated that a meeting with the health minister was scheduled for the following day to discuss further course of action.

The geographical spread of the suspected cases paints a concerning picture. Aravalli has reported three deaths, with one confirmed by the NIV. Sabarkantha follows with two fatalities, while Morbi has witnessed two as well. Other districts like Mahisagar, Mehsana, Gandhinagar, Panchmahal, Rajkot, and Surendranagar have also reported suspected cases.

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The state government’s health bulletin adds another layer of worry. Two patients, one each from Udaipur in Rajasthan and Dhar in Madhya Pradesh, have succumbed to the illness, raising concerns about the virus’s potential for wider transmission.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (Representative Image)