Chandipura Virus
An outbreak of the Chandipura virus has caused alarm in Gujarat, India. The virus is transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies and can cause severe symptoms, including fever, headache, diarrhea, vomiting, and seizures. There is no specific treatment for the virus, but early diagnosis and supportive care can improve the chances of survival.
What is Chandipura virus?
According to available information, the first case of this virus was reported in Maharashtra in 1966. Information about this virus came to light in Chandipura, Nagpur. Hence, it was named Chandipura virus.
This virus was found in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat during 2004-2006 and 2019. Chandipura is an RNA virus. Which is spread by female phlebotomine flies. Aedes, found in mosquitoes, is responsible for its spread.
Also read this: Zika Virus is also spread through sexual intercourse; Care to be taken by couples
Symptoms
• Fever
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Altered sensorium (confusion, disorientation)
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
Prevention
• Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants.
• Use bed nets to protect yourself from mosquitoes at night.
• Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by removing standing water.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the symptoms of Chandipura virus.
#WATCH | Sabarkantha, Gujarat: On Chandipura Virus, Sabarkantha District Health Officer Dr Raj Sutariya says, “There are suspected 9 cases of Chandipura virus at the Himmatnagar Civil Hospital. Samples of 8 children have been collected and sent to NIB Pune. We are waiting for the… pic.twitter.com/cA4AxVGAGX
— ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2024
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for Chandipura virus. Treatment is focused on supportive care, which may include:
• Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
• Medications to control fever and pain
• Anticonvulsants to control seizures
• Respiratory support if needed
Additional Information
• The Chandipura virus is a rare virus that is found in India, Pakistan, and Nepal.
• The virus is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15.
• The case fatality rate for Chandipura virus is high, ranging from 50% to 70%.
• Chandipura virus is a rare virus that belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family.
• The virus is primarily known for causing acute encephalitis, a severe inflammation of the brain.
Also read this:
• Monkey Eye Surgery: First monkey cataract operation done in India
