According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India is currently experiencing its biggest Chandipura virus outbreak in 20 years. The Indian Ministry of Health recorded 245 instances of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) between early June and August 15, including 82 fatalities, for a case fatality rate (CFR) of 33%.
There have been more instances recorded in the nearby states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, although the outbreak is centered in Gujarat. There are currently AES instances in 43 districts in India, and 64 of these cases have been linked to Chandipura virus (CHPV) infection.
It is known that CHPV, a virus belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family, occasionally causes AES outbreaks, especially in western, central, and southern India during the monsoon season. Vectors that carry the virus include ticks, mosquitoes, and sandflies. There is no specific therapy or vaccine available for CHPV, and the CFR is relatively high, ranging from 56% to 75%.
Although CHPV epidemics happen frequently, the present outbreak is the worst in 20 years, according to the WHO. In high-risk areas where children under 15 are more susceptible to the virus, surveillance activities are vital. Enhancing laboratory diagnostic capabilities, such as the prompt collection and examination of serum and cerebrospinal fluid samples, is recommended by the WHO.
There have been no reports of CHPV transmission from person to person despite the serious outbreak. Although there haven’t been as many new AES cases every day since July 19, the monsoon season still provides ideal circumstances for vector populations, which might either maintain or raise the danger of additional transmission.
The WHO has suggested a number of actions to contain the spread. These include methods for controlling the number of sandflies and other vectors, like fumigation and insecticidal spraying. Public health initiatives are also being made to disseminate information about the virus, its symptoms, and ways to avoid it. A National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) has been dispatched by the Union Health Ministry to support the Gujarat government in carrying out public health measures and conducting an extensive epidemiological investigation.
The Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) is continuously monitoring the issue and conducting active research to uncover other potential viruses causing encephalitis. To control and lessen the effects of this pandemic, ongoing attention to detail and public health campaigns are important.
SOURCE :
HINDUSTAN TIMES
