Chandipura Virus Expands Its Reach: A Growing Concern for Children
Chandipura virus, affecting mainly children under 15, has surged in Gujarat with 84 cases and 32 deaths. High fatality rates and preventive measures are crucial.
Chandipura Virus Surge: Gujarat Reports 84 Cases and 32 Deaths, Highlighting Severe Impact on Children Under 15
Chandipura virus is said to be on the rise in Gujarat as at the recent recent past the state has registered 13 new suspected cases and five more deaths. This increase brings the overall number of confirmed and suspected cases to 84, with the mortality rate being 32 in the state. The virus is known to be fatal and has been responsible for deaths prevail in prior outbreaks, with mortality reaching up to 75%.
Why are Children Most Affected?
Chandipura virus mainly involves children below the age of 15 years; therefore, it remains a major concern to the public health sector. The virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and the transmission of the virus takes place through insect vectors such as sandflies mainly from the Phlebotomus genus. In India it affects cohorts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh with high incidence during monsoon and post monsoon period due to increased population of sandflies
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This is because children’s immune systems are still developing and have a relatively small body mass compared to older adults, which makes them more vulnerable to the Chandipura virus and its severe symptoms. The disease is characterized by quick development; patients would first present with flu like symptoms – high fever, severe headache, and convulsions – and could rapidly progress to neurological involvement including seizures, coma and death.
Current Situation and Statistics: Starting early June 2024, Gujarat reports an increase in AES case amongst children where 78 cases where recorded including 28 deaths. This shows that out of 76 samples discovered in NIV Pune, 9 were positive to the test that infected them with Chandipura Virus, all of which are from Gujarat. Such a high fatality rate, combined with the aggressive symptoms, indicates that prompt and efficient treatment and prevention schemes should be implemented.
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Preventive Measures: It is necessary to improvise preventive measures to contain the expanse of the Chandipura virus. Prallelasma prevention is the first line of treatment which involves the use of DEET containing insect repellants and protective clothing as well as the use of insecticide treated bed nets. Limiting time outside during the times when sandflies are most active—early morning and late evening—can help reduce the chances of being bitten. Also, working together as a community to reduce the number of sandflies by using insecticides and educating people about the early signs of sandfly-related illnesses can help stop new outbreaks from happening.
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