Gandhinagar, August 15: The ongoing surveillance period in Gujarat, which began on June 30, has confirmed 41 laboratory cases of the Chandipura virus, resulting in 27 fatalities. This information was released by the state health department on Friday.
As of 5 PM on August 14, the state recorded 257 suspected cases of the Chandipura virus. Reports for 246 samples have been received, while results for 11 samples are still pending.
Among the tested samples, 41 have confirmed the presence of the Chandipura virus. Recent statistics indicate a significant increase in infection cases compared to earlier reports.
On July 21, the state had recorded 63 suspected cases, with 12 confirmed and eight pending reports. Following this, the health department intensified monitoring in affected areas and implemented measures to control the spread of insects around homes and animal shelters.
The Chandipura virus is associated with acute encephalitis syndrome, primarily affecting children. It spreads mainly through infected sandflies. Outbreaks are typically observed in certain regions of central and western India.
According to the National Centre for Disease Control, symptoms of this virus can include sudden high fever and neurological issues. Children under 15 years of age are particularly vulnerable.
The health department is actively monitoring and implementing preventive measures in affected areas. This includes house-to-house health checks and special campaigns to control sandflies.
In the early stages of the outbreak, officials reported an expanded surveillance scope in affected villages. Additionally, pesticide spraying, cleanliness drives, and awareness programs are being conducted.
This latest outbreak comes at a time when Gujarat was one of the states most severely affected by a major Chandipura virus outbreak two years ago.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral medication or vaccine available for the Chandipura virus. Symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, seizures, and changes in mental status can quickly escalate to severe conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if such symptoms appear.
To prevent this infection, minimizing contact with sandflies is deemed essential. Wearing full-body clothing, using mosquito nets and repellents, maintaining cleanliness, and implementing pest control measures are vital steps.
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