Four children have died due to the Chandipura virus, as reported by officials at the civil hospital in Himmatnagar, Gujarat. Among the deceased, one child was from Sabarkantha district, two were from the neighboring Aravalli district, and the fourth child was from Rajasthan. Additionally, two more children from Rajasthan are currently receiving treatment at the same hospital.

 

5 Kids DEAD: Mystery Virus Sweeps India– According to Sabarkantha Chief District Health Officer Raj Sutariya, blood samples from all six children have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for confirmation, and the results are pending.

The Chandipura virus, a relatively obscure virus, belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and the Vesiculovirus genus. It was first discovered during an outbreak in 1965 in Chandipura village in Maharashtra, India, which is how it got its name. Since then, there have been occasional outbreaks reported in different parts of India, as well as in other countries across Asia and Africa.

 

5 Kids DEAD Mystery Virus Sweeps India: The Chandipura virus mainly targets children, leading to symptoms such as fever, convulsions, altered sensorium, and in severe instances, coma and death. The mortality rate is notably high, particularly among younger age groups. This virus has been linked to outbreaks of encephalitis, a severe inflammation of the brain. Humans contract the virus through bites from infected sandflies, especially Phlebotomus papatasi and Sergentomyia species, which serve as vectors.

 

To reduce the risk of Chandipura virus infection, strategies typically emphasize vector control methods, such as spraying insecticides to diminish sandfly populations. Public health education plays a crucial role in promoting preventive measures like using bed nets and wearing protective clothing. Since there is no specific antiviral treatment for Chandipura virus, supportive care remains essential. This involves managing symptoms and preventing complications as the primary approach to treatment.