CHANDIPURA VIRUS
CHANDIPURA VIRUS
The Chandipura virus has been spread across multiple districts in Gujarat and is believed to be the cause of death for children below 144 years.
- NAMED after a town in Maharashtra where the first case was discovered.
- Causes Brain Inflammation and grows as an influenza-like disease leading to coma and death.
- CHPV – Chandipura Vesiculovirus infects children of the age 14 years or below.
- Found in Senegal, Nigeria and India on large scale.
- 2003 epidemic in South India killing 329 people through development of Encephalitis.
SYMPTOMS –
- High fever accompanied by strains of headache.
- The virus spreads using the medium of sandflies which are often found in large number near huts and pools.
- It damages neurons and hence neurodegeneration is induced.
- Such viral vectors like mosquitoes and sandflies often breed during monsoon when the cases rise typically high.
- Sudden fever, headache, seizures and vomiting lead to unconsciousness and hence can even lead to death.
Therapy :
- No particular treatment or drug.
- Hospitalisation and symptomatic care can help
Prevention :
- National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) suggests guidelines like maintaining good nutrition, Sanitation, Hygiene.
- Awareness programs in rural areas.
