Chandipura Virus Causes, Symptoms and Treatment: All You Need To Know About the Virus That Causes Severe Inflammation of the Brain

The Chandipura virus is part of the Rhabdoviridae family's Vesiculovirus genus. The Chandipura virus spreads mainly through sandflies, mosquitoes and ticks. This virus is known for causing severe encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), especially in children. It is known for causing changes in host cells when it infects them. The recent increase in the number of cases in Gujarat emphasises the importance of taking preventive and proactive measures against this deadly virus. According to reports, recently, six children died from the suspected Chandipura virus infection in Gujarat's Aravalli district. Read on to learn more about the Chandipura virus. Brain-Eating Amoeba or Naegleria fowleri FAQs: Where Is Brain Eating Amoeba Found? Can Brain Eating Amoeba Be Cured? Everything You Need To Know.

What is Chandipura Virus?

The Chandipura virus (CHPV), belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family, is closely related to viruses causing rabies and vesicular stomatitis, a viral infection that mainly affects livestock like cattle, pigs and horses. It also affects humans. The Chandipura virus was first identified in 1965 in Chandipura village, Maharashtra. Acute encephalitis or inflammation of the brain caused by this virus, can be deadly, especially in young children.

Chandipura Virus Causes

The Chandipura virus mainly impacts young children and it has a high mortality rate. Transmission of the virus occurs through bites from infected sandflies or drainflies. They are species such as Sergentomyia and Phlebotomus papatasi. It is also caused by the bites of mosquitoes and ticks.

Chandipura Virus Symptoms

Symptoms of Chandipura virus infection appear suddenly . High fever is usually an early sign of the virus. Severe headaches and frequent vomiting are also indicators of the virus. In severe cases, children may even experience convulsions and seizures. As the condition worsens, patients may even become unconscious. Symptoms also include agitation, confusion and drowsiness. Children infected with the virus often die within 48–72 hours of showing symptoms.

Chandipura Virus Treatment

There's no specific treatment for Chandipura virus. The emergency treatment will focus more on protecting the nerve cells and preventing long-term neurological complications or damages. Medications like furosemide and mannitol are used to reduce brain swelling. Controlling sandflies, maintaining good hygiene and health, and raising awareness can help manage the virus. What Is Flesh-Eating Bacteria aka Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS)? From Causes to Treatment, Know About the Deadly Infection That's Killing People in Japan.

To stay safe, it's important to avoid sandfly bites. Use insecticide-treated bed nets for children, especially in areas where there are sandflies. Get rid of potential sandfly breeding sites like stagnant water, heaps of trash and organic waste. Regularly clean and disinfect your surroundings to reduce sandfly habitats. If your child shows symptoms like high fever, headache, or vomiting, immediately seek medical help. Follow medical advice for treatment and prevention.

(This article is written for an informative purpose and should not be substituted for medical advice. Kindly consult your doctor before trying any tips.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 16, 2024 05:29 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).