3 Die Due To Suspected Chandipura Virus In Gujarat, Pathogen Returns After 14 Years

Suspected cases of Chandipura virus have been reported in Guajarat's Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts. The health department has initiated a probe into the matter while efforts are on to curb the infection.

Sabarkantha:Three persons died due to suspected infection of Chandipura virus in Gujarat. While two deaths were recorded in Aravalli district, one was in Khedbrahma in Sabarkantha district. A probe has been initiated following reports of suspected cases in these two districts, health department officials said.

Nearly six persons are currently admitted in Himmatnagar Civil Hospital in Sabarkantha with Chandipura virus-like symptoms. The samples of five persons have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for testing and a high-level meeting is likely to be held today.

How does this virus spread?

It is a rare and deadly pathogen that is transmitted through mosquitoes, sandflies and ticks. Sandflies frequenting in kutcha houses and cracks of the walls usually act as carriers of this virus. In most cases, the patient dies within 8 to 10 hours after coming in contact with this virus. It causes swelling in the brain and tend to affect children below 10 years. This virus is more deadly than swine flu, doctors said.

Symptoms:

Patients have symptoms like fever, vomiting, breathing problem and flue. As the symptoms of Chandipura virus are similar to that of other viruses, it is difficult to identify it in the initial stage. It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible.

Chandipura virus last reported in Gujarat 14 years ago:

According to officials, 14 years ago, Chandipura virus had claimed 17 lives in Gujarat. It was first reported in 1965 in the area near Nagpur in Maharashtra and some tribal areas.

As a precautionary measure, people have been asked to go for dusting to kill sandflies, that breed on 'katcha' walls and cracks and to seek immediate medical attention.

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