Chandipura Virus Outbreak: 7 Cases Confirmed, 3 Children Dead, Health Measures Intensified

Gujarat has reported an outbreak of the Chandipura virus (CHPV) , with seven confirmed cases detected in recent weeks. Of these, three children have died , while four patients are currently undergoing treatment, Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said on Monday. All confirmed patients are below 10 years of age .

The state government has intensified surveillance and preventive measures to control the infection, though officials have not reported widespread transmission across Gujarat. Health teams are closely monitoring affected areas and taking steps to prevent further spread. The Health Department said samples of 27 suspected patients were sent for testing. Of these, seven tested positive , 12 returned negative results, and reports of eight suspected cases are still awaited.

The Chandipura virus is a vector-borne infection that spreads through vectors such as sandflies, mosquitoes and ticks . The virus can cause fever, flu-like symptoms and acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) , a condition involving inflammation of the brain that can become severe, particularly among children.

Symptoms of CHPV infection include high fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, seizures, confusion and reduced alertness . Health experts have advised parents to seek immediate medical attention if children develop persistent fever or neurological symptoms, as the infection can progress rapidly in severe cases.

To contain the outbreak, the Gujarat government has launched fogging, insect-control operations, sanitisation drives and public awareness campaigns in affected regions. Authorities are focusing on reducing sandfly breeding and strengthening disease surveillance. The Health Department is also working with the Indian Medical Association and paediatric specialists to improve treatment facilities. Doctors at government and private healthcare centres have been instructed to identify suspected cases quickly, ensure timely hospitalisation and provide critical support, including oxygen and ventilator facilities when required.

The government has made medicines and essential medical supplies available at healthcare centres across the state. Officials said areas that reported Chandipura virus cases in 2024 have not recorded fresh infections after preventive measures were implemented.

The virus was first identified in 1965 after being isolated from a patient in Chandipura village in Maharashtra’s Nagpur district and has primarily affected children during previous outbreaks.