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Chandipura virus is found in many districts of Gujarat. Chandipura virus is an RNA virus, which is mostly spread by female phlebotomine fly. Aedes found in mosquitoes are responsible for its spread. This virus was reported in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat in the years 2004 to 2006 and 2019. So far, 27 suspected cases have been reported in Gujarat and 14 people have died.
Suspected cases have been reported in 12 districts of Gujarat. Out of 27, 24 cases are from Gujarat and the other three have come to Gujarat from other states. The highest number of cases have been found in Sabarkantha and Aravalli, where 4-4 people were found infected with Chandipura. When samples of mysterious deaths were sent to the lab, the National Institute of Virology (NIV) confirmed Chandipura virus in a four-year-old girl.
What are the symptoms of Chandipura virus?
The patient suffering from Chandipura virus complains of fever, headache, body ache and cramps. It has symptoms similar to flu and causes severe encephalitis. Encephalitis is a disease that causes swelling in the brain. Symptoms like respiratory problems and anemia have also been seen in some patients. Doctors say that this virus spreads more through flies. The first 24 to 72 hours are very important, because it is more lethal at that time. If you reach the hospital within this time, then treatment is possible.
How to avoid Chandipura virus?
The first step to prevent Chandipura virus is to avoid flies found in sand. Insecticides can be used for this. Wear full clothes and use mosquito nets to avoid flies and mosquitoes. Also, people living in virus-affected areas can be protected to a great extent by making them aware about the risks and prevention of Chandipura virus.
What is the treatment for Chandipura virus?
There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for Chandipura virus. Chandipura can be prevented only by treating the symptoms and avoiding complications. Patients with severe symptoms, especially children, are often hospitalised. It is important to keep the body hydrated, especially in case of vomiting. Medicines can be taken to reduce fever. Intensive care may be needed in case of severe neurological symptoms, such as respiratory and neurological complications.
What is Chandipura virus?
Chandipura is not a new virus. The first case was reported in Maharashtra in 1965. Cases of this virus are reported in Gujarat every year. This disease is caused by the sting of a vector-infected sandfly. It mainly affects children between the ages of 9 months and 14 years. It is more common in rural areas. Fever, vomiting, diarrhoea and headache are its main symptoms. If these symptoms appear, one should consult a doctor. The state government has issued an advisory for all.
