Chandipura Virus Spreads: Claims 32 Lives, Highlighting Vulnerability of Children

Gujarat’s suspected Chandipura Viral Encephalitis (CHPV) cases climbed to 32 on Monday. Worryingly, many other individuals exhibiting CHPV symptoms are currently hospitalised across various district civil hospitals in Gujarat.

It’s important to note that most fatalities from this virus have been children. According to Dr Ather Pasha, Consultant of Internal Medicine at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, ‘’While the Chandipura virus can infect anyone, it’s often more fatal in children due to their immature immune systems and the rapid progression of symptoms.’’

The Chandipura virus, which is a member of the Rhabdoviridae family and causes brain inflammation (encephalitis), was first discovered in India in 1965. Primarily spread by sandflies, the virus has caused fatalities in Gujarat because of its quick spread and effects on the central nervous system, particularly in kids. According to experts, although adults can also contract the virus, their symptoms are usually less severe, and their mortality rate is lower.

These are some of the reasons why children are more vulnerable to a serious Chandipura virus infection:

Immune System Development: Since children's immune systems are still growing, they are less able to fend off the virus.

Exposure Risk: Compared to adults, children are more likely to play outside and may not always take precautions.

Age Bracket: Children under the age of 15 are especially vulnerable to the virus, with those under 10 having the highest risk.

In what ways does it spread, and what are the warning signs?

The following warning indicators of a Chandipura virus infection were cautioned by doctors:

i) High fever

ii) Severe headaches

iii) Seizures

iv) Vomitings

v) Altered mental state, such as sleepiness or confusion

vi) Coma (In severe cases)

Bite-throughs from infected sandflies are how the virus spreads. After biting an animal that is infected with the virus, these sandflies contract the infection and spread it to people.

How can adults and children avoid getting infected?

Early diagnosis and treatment are necessary due to the symptoms' rapid escalation, which includes high fever, seizures, and an altered mental state, according to the doctors. Regrettably, the high death rate in affected regions is partly due to delayed diagnosis, limited access to intensive care, and a lack of specific antiviral treatments.

Here are some tips for guarding against the Chandipura virus for both you and your kids:

a) Apply insect repellents with DEET or other potent ingredients to exposed skin to keep insects away.

b) Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers for protection, especially at dawn and dusk, when sandflies are most active.

c) Use insecticide-treated nets to protect yourself from bites while you sleep.

d) Remove organic waste and standing water from your home's and neighbourhood's potential sandfly breeding grounds.

e)Remain up to date on the virus, its symptoms, and preventive steps.

f) Quick medical attention, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and successful vector control programs are essential to lessen the effects of the Chandipura virus, particularly in children.