Chandipura Virus Outbreak: Control Tips and Prevention Measures - Health

Gujarat 's Chandipura Virus Outbreak

Gujarat is currently experiencing a severe outbreak of the Chandipura virus and viral encephalitis , with a total of 73 reported deaths due to the disease . Since the outbreak began last month , the State has recorded 162 cases of viral encephalitis , including 60 cases specifically linked to the Chandipura virus . The disease has spread to more than two dozen districts and major cities such as Ahmedabad , Rajkot , Jamnagar , and Vadodara in Gujarat . In addition to the local cases , five individuals from neighboring Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have also lost their lives to the virus in Gujarat.

 The State health department has reported that 11 patients are currently under treatment , while 78 individuals have been discharged after recovering from the disease . Despite the efforts of rapid action teams formed by health authorities to conduct surveillance in affected areas , the number of deaths continues to rise with two to three fatalities being reported daily.

Preventive Measures and Control Efforts

To combat the spread of the Chandipura virus , the State health department has initiated various surveillance and control measures . Surveillance activities have been carried out in over 53,000 households to identify and refer suspected cases to specialized medical facilities . Additionally , the health department has implemented the spraying of Malathion , a pesticide , in nearly 7.5 lakh mud houses and cattle sheds , as well as in non - cemented houses in affected villages . Schools and playgrounds in impacted districts have also been covered as part of the disease control efforts.

 Medical experts have highlighted that the sandfly , the carrier of the Chandipura virus , resides in the cracks of mud houses . The symptoms of the virus are similar to the flu , but if not treated promptly , it can lead to encephalitis , coma , and death within 24 to 48 hours , with children under 15 being the most vulnerable . The current outbreak in Gujarat has been described as the worst in over two decades , predominantly affecting children and teenagers under the age of 15.

Chandipura Virus Cases in Rajasthan

In a separate incident , Rajasthan has reported its second death attributed to the Chandipura virus , with a two - year - old girl succumbing to the disease in Ahmedabad . The toddler , Ishika , from Shahpura district , passed away after testing positive for the virus . Health officials have confirmed that her two brothers are also exhibiting mild fever symptoms , with their samples sent for examination.

 Following the tragic death , health department teams are conducting door - to - door surveys in the village to prevent further spread of the virus . Authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness to curb infections and have issued advisories to raise awareness about the Chandipura virus and its transmission through sand flies.