Chandipura Virus Outbreak: The pathogen is a member of the Vesiculovirus genus of the family Rhabdoviridae. Chandipura virus causes fever, with symptoms similar to flu, and acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). A concerning news emerged from Gujarat with state Health Minister Rushikesh Patel on Monday confirming the death of as many as six children from suspected Chandipura virus, taking the total tally of suspected cases to 12.
All 12 samples have been sent to Pune's National Institute of Virology (NIV) for confirmation. So what is the Chandipura virus and how can one protect their kids and themselves from it? Dr Shreya Dubey, Consultant, Neonatology & Paediatrics, CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon, shares her insights. What Is Chandipura Virus And How It Spreads As a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, the Chandipura virus (CHPV) is closely linked to the viruses that cause vesicular stomatitis and rabies, says Dr Shreya Dube.
She adds, "It was initially discovered in 1965 in the Indian state of Maharashtra, in the village of Chandipura. Acute encephalitis, a brain inflammation caused by the virus, is known to be lethal, particularly in young patients." Experts like Rushikesh Patel point out that while the Chandipura virus is not contagious, it is transmitted by vectors like mosquitoes, ticks and sand flies.
Symptoms Of Chandipura Virus Infection Chandipura virus causes fever, with symptoms similar to flu, and acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). The pathogen i.