What Is Chandipura Virus That Claimed 22 Lives In Gujarat? Symptoms, Spread And Prevention Explained

Published 5 August 2026 · health

News india What Is Chandipura Virus That Claimed 22 Lives In Gujarat? Symptoms, Spread And Prevention Explained What Is Chandipura Virus That Claimed 22 Lives

News india What Is Chandipura Virus That Claimed 22 Lives In Gujarat? Symptoms, Spread And Prevention Explained What Is Chandipura Virus That Claimed 22 Lives In Gujarat? Symptoms, Spread And Prevention Explained Published By, Last Updated: August 05, 2026, 06:30 IST Chandipura virus has claimed 22 lives in Gujarat. Know its symptoms, how it spreads, why children are at risk, and prevention measures against the deadly infection. Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said that 35 people tested positive for Chandipura virus out of 184 patients, including suspected cases, whose blood samples were examined. (Photo: AFP file) Chandipura Virus Outbreak: At least 22 children have died in Gujarat due to Chandipura virus infection during the ongoing monsoon season, raising concerns over the spread of the rare but deadly viral disease, especially among children. Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said that 35 people tested positive for Chandipura virus out of 184 patients, including suspected cases, whose blood samples were examined. Following the rise in cases, the Gujarat Health Department has intensified surveillance, testing and monitoring efforts in affected regions to identify suspected infections early and prevent further spread. What Is Chandipura Virus? Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a rare but highly dangerous viral infection that causes Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) — a condition marked by inflammation of the brain that can quickly become life-threatening.

The virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and primarily affects children below the age of 15 years. It was first identified in 1965 in Chandipura village of Maharashtra, from where it got its name. The virus is mainly reported in parts of central and western India, including Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. How Does Chandipura Virus Spread? Chandipura virus is a vector-borne disease, meaning it spreads through insects that carry and transmit the virus. The primary vector responsible for transmission is the phlebotomine sandfly, which spreads the virus through its bite. Certain species of mosquitoes and ticks may also contribute to transmission. Cases generally increase during the monsoon and post-monsoon period, as humid conditions create favourable breeding environments for sandflies. Sandflies are commonly found in Cracks in mud walls and houses Damp soil Livestock shelters Areas with accumulated organic waste What Happens After Chandipura Virus Infection? The infection can progress rapidly, with symptoms worsening within 24 to 48 hours in severe cases. After entering the body, the virus can affect the central nervous system, causing brain inflammation and swelling associated with Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). Chandipura Virus Symptoms Initial symptoms may include Sudden high fever Severe headache Vomiting and nausea Body aches Extreme weakness and fatigue As the infection advances, neurological symptoms may develop Seizures or convulsions Confusion or altered consciousness Excessive drowsiness Loss of awareness Brain swelling Coma in severe cases Children are considered the most vulnerable group, and delayed medical attention can increase the risk of serious complications.