Chandipura Virus Outbreak: How to look after your children? | Dr Shreya Dubey | CK Birla Hospital

Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a zoonotic virus belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family, specifically the Vesiculovirus genus. It was first isolated in 1965 in Chandipura village in Maharashtra, India, hence its name. The virus is known to cause acute encephalitis, particularly in children, and has been associated with several outbreaks in India.

Transmission and Hosts
Vectors: The primary vectors for Chandipura virus are sandflies, particularly Phlebotomus species. These insects become infected when they bite animals or humans carrying the virus.
Hosts: While the primary hosts are believed to be humans and certain animals, the exact reservoir hosts are not fully understood.

Symptoms of Chandipura Virus Infection

Fever: Sudden high fever.
Headache: Severe headaches are common.
Vomiting: Frequent vomiting, which can lead to dehydration.
Convulsions: Seizures or convulsions are often observed.
Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain leading to symptoms like confusion, disorientation, and altered mental status.
Coma: In severe cases, the infection can lead to coma and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Treatment

Supportive Care: There is no specific antiviral treatment for Chandipura virus infection.
Hydration: Ensuring adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
Antipyretics: Medications to reduce fever.
Anticonvulsants: Drugs to control seizures.

Severe cases often require hospitalisation, particularly if encephalitis develops.

Prevention

Preventive measures focus on controlling the vector population and reducing human exposure to sandflies:

Insect Repellents: Use of insect repellents to reduce sandfly bites.
Protective Clothing: Wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants to minimize skin exposure.
Insecticide Spraying: Regular spraying of insecticides in endemic areas to control sandfly populations.
Public Health Awareness: Educating communities about the risks and preventive measures.

Chandipura virus is a significant public health concern in certain regions of India, particularly in rural areas where sandflies are prevalent. Outbreaks have been reported periodically, primarily affecting children. Due to the rapid progression and high mortality rate of the disease, early detection and prompt medical intervention are crucial.

In this informative video by Dr Shreya Dubey, a leading paediatrician at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, we help you understand how to take care of your child's health. At CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, we ensure that every patient gets the opportunity to lead a better quality of life.

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