Chandipura Virus Symptoms: Causes, and Prevention Tips

Chandipura Virus: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention and More

The Chandipura virus primarily targets children through encephalitis symptoms which affect each patient similarly to flu infections. Based on the absence of proper treatments and vaccines for the disease early detection serves as the primary tool for effective disease management.

WHO declared the Chandipura virus outbreak in India as the biggest outbreak in twenty years in 2024 after detecting 245 AES cases and confirming 82 deaths from June to August 15. This guide will help you understand the virus in detail, including its causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and available treatment options. 

What is the Chandipura Virus?

The Chandipura virus (CHPV) is part of the Rhabdoviridae family and primarily affects children under 15 years of age. It causes sporadic cases and outbreaks, particularly in western, central, and southern India, especially during the monsoon season. 
Sand flies and ticks act as vectors, transmitting the virus to humans. Infected individuals usually experience a febrile illness, which can sometimes result in death.

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What is the Cause of the Chandipura Virus?

The Chandipura virus primarily spreads through the bite of infected sandflies, particularly from the Phlebotomus genus. Researchers have not fully understood transmission methods, yet they have established that sandflies, along with mosquitoes, are the fundamental routes that transmit the infection. They suspect that some animal species may act as reservoirs, but this is still under investigation.

Here is an overview of the Chandipura virus outbreaks over the years:

• The Chandipura virus was first discovered in 1965 after being found in sandflies in India and West Africa. 
• At that time, it has caused several unexplained outbreaks of brain infections. 
• Between June and August 2003, an outbreak affected 329 children and led to 183 deaths in Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. 
• In 2004, more cases and deaths among children were reported in Gujarat.
• As per the 2024 news in Gujarat’s Aravalli district, six children were suspected to have died from the Chandipura virus in the last five days, which brings the total number of suspected cases to 12. 
• Outbreaks usually coincide with environmental conditions that promote sandfly breeding. 
• The disease mainly affects children aged 2 to 16 years and is known for its sudden onset and rapid progression, often resulting in severe neurological issues. 
• Early diagnosis and supportive care are crucial to manage symptoms and improve patient outcomes.

What are the Symptoms of Chandipura Virus?

Symptoms of Chandipura virus usually start suddenly and then rapidly get worse. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential since the infection mainly affects children. Following are some of the common symptoms: 

• High Fever: A sudden rise in body temperature.
• Headache: Having a very severe headache that lasts for quite some time.
• Vomiting: Frequent vomiting might lead to dehydration.
• Seizures: Uncontrolled electrical brain activities may lead to convulsing.
• Altered Mental Status: Confusion, disorientation or observable behavior changes may be noticed.
• Coma: In the most critical cases, it can lead a patient into a coma.

Due to the rapid progression of symptoms, seeking medical attention at the earliest signs is crucial.

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How to Prevent Chandipura Virus? 

A few important measures can be practised to prevent Chandipura virus infection. 

●  Maintain Hygiene

Frequent hand washing with soap and water, especially after touching animals or being in potentially contaminated areas.

●  Avoid Contact with Wildlife

Minimize contact with wildlife and their habitats, especially in coastal areas where the virus is predominant. 

●  Use Personal Protective Equipment

Wear gloves and masks and use other protective items when dealing with potentially infected animals or their tissues in order to reduce transmission risk. 

●  Control Vectors

Insects are considered possible transmission factors of the Chandipura virus, so one should use insect repellents and sleep under mosquito nets. 

How to Treat Chandipura Virus?

Currently, there is no standard antiviral therapy for infection by the Chandipura virus. Healthcare providers usually provide symptom management and support care. Chandipura virus treatment methods are:

●  Hospitalization

Severally symptomatic patients need to be hospitalised, monitored and cared for. 

●  Hydration

Sufficient hydration is required throughout treatment due to intense vomiting. 

●  Intensive Care

Intensive care is required when the neurological symptoms demand proper attention to respiratory and neurological complications. 

●  Antipyretics

Drugs are given to control fever. 

●  Anticonvulsants

These include drugs that relieve and control seizure activity. 

Chandipura virus is one of the most severe viral infections as it can lead to acute encephalitis, especially in children, and thus requires immediate medical attention. Thus, its symptoms, causes, prevention, and treatment should all be known, as it will help in the early detection and management of the disease. 

If you or your loved ones experience symptoms associated with the Chandipura Virus, seek medical help without delay. Additionally, securing comprehensive health insurance from Star Health Insurance can provide essential financial support during medical emergencies and cover treatment expenses.