Ahmedabad, July 16: Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel on Monday, July 15, said that six children in the state died from suspected Chandipura virus infections in the past five days. Besides, the cases of the pathogen have risen to 12 in Gujarat. Patel also said that 4 patients were from Sabarkantha district, 3 from Aravalli, and 1 from Mahisagar and Kheda, respectively. Of the 12 cases, 2 were from Rajasthan and 1 from Madhya Pradesh, who received treatment in the Coastal state. While the number of cases has been on the rise, it's important to understand what the Chandipura Virus is.

The viral infection is a member of the Vesiculovirus genus in the Rhabdoviridae family and causes fever with symptoms similar to flu and acute encephalitis (brain inflammation). Speaking about the number of cases, Patel said that most of the deaths, six so far, occurred at the civil hospital in Himatnagar, Sabarkantha district. Of the cases, 3 are from other states. So far, six deaths have been reported due to the pathogen; however, confirmation regarding the same is awaited as samples have been sent to Pune. Chandipura Virus in Gujarat: 6 Children Die Due to Suspected Virus Infection in Past 5 Days, Says Health Minister Rushikesh Patel.

What Is Chandipura Virus?

The deadly virus is a rare and dangerous pathogen that can cause fever, flu-like symptoms, and acute encephalitis or inflammation of the brain. A member of the Vesiculovirus genus of the Rhabdoviridae family, the viral infection is spread by vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies. It was first identified in Maharashtra in 1965. Notably, the virus has been linked to several outbreaks of encephalitic illness across the country. It is also known as Chandipura Vesiculovirus (CHPV).

Symptoms, Treatment and Management:

High fever, vomiting, loose motion, headache and diarrhoea are some of the symptoms of the viral infection. While cases have been reported in Gujarat, Rushikesh Patel said that cases of the virus are registered in Gujarat every year. There are no specific treatments to fight the Chandipura virus; however, early detection of the virus, hospitalisation, and proper health care can help prevent fatalities caused by the virus. Patel also said that the virus affects children aged 9 months to 14 years. Zika Virus: Two More Cases of Mosquito-Borne Virus Reported in Pune, Total Tally Rises to Six.

Meanwhile, 50 teams have been mobilised across Gujarat to conduct widespread dusting operations to curb mosquito populations. Authorities have also requested farmers to use insecticides and pesticides. On the other hand, parents have been advised to dress their children in full-sleeved clothing to minimise mosquito bites.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 16, 2024 08:53 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).