In July 2024 Indian news outlets reported cases and deaths of suspected Chandipura virus (CHPV) in Gujarat. 8 children are said to have died already, with more “battling for their lives”. Samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for confirmation, and Gujarat’s Health Minister Rushikesh Patel stated that the deaths can be attributed to the virus “after the reports come in”. There are no approved vaccines or treatments.
CHPV
Chandipura virus (CHPV) is an arbovirus of the Vesiculovirus genus in the Rhabdoviridae family. Among identified Vesiculoviruses, CHPV is “considered to be the most significant pathogen of public health importance” with a high case fatality ratio. It was first isolated in 1965 but has been considered an “orphan or concomitant virus” due to low pathogenicity to cause human or domestic animal infections.
CHPV causes two types of encephalitis: infection-related and auto-immune induced. It is “most commonly” associated with encephalitic sickness in children, clinically defined by a short high-grade fever, altered sensorium, vomiting, generalised convulsions, and decerebrate posture. This can lead to a grade IV coma and death within 48 hours of hospitalisation.
The situation in Gujarat
Telegraph India reports that cases have been identified in the Sabarkantha, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Kheda, Mehsana, and Rajkot districts. Since 10th July, 14 people have become ill, of whom 8 have died. The National Institute of Virology has received samples to confirm infection.
Experts comment
Weighing in on the apparent evolution of the disease manifestation and vector, Dr Sandipkumar Trivedi is quoted identifying a “new presentation” of two brain haemorrhages among the six deaths. Furthermore, sandflies have been found at “higher heights” than the usual 3 feet from the ground and “new outbreak centres” are emerging.
Dr Sayan Chakraborty of Manipal Hospital, Calcutta, is concerned that “this is a very rare form of virus” that “needs more research”. Dr Chakraborty wonders if it “thrives more in dry climate” and reflected that without specific treatment options the only solution is symptom management.
“Only symptomatic treatment is possible in the absence of any anti-viral and take proper care of the patient in an intensive care unit.”
Dr Abhishek Tiwari from ILS Hospitals, Calcutta, urged parents to be careful of insect bites and “keep our homes and surroundings clean”.
“Prevention is the only way out.”
If a child develops a sudden fever or falls unconscious “he or she should be immediately hospitalised”.
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