Chandipura virus - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a member of the Rhabdoviridae family of viruses that is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected sandflies.
- 2. The virus was first isolated in 1965 in a village named Chandipura in Maharashtra, India, where an outbreak of encephalitis occurred.
- 3. Chandipura virus primarily affects children under the age of 15, with symptoms including fever, convulsions, and altered sensorium. In severe cases, it can lead to encephalitis and death.
- 4. The virus is endemic to India, with sporadic outbreaks reported in different states such as Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
- 5. Chandipura virus is mainly transmitted by the Phlebotomus species of sandflies, which are nocturnal and feed on the blood of mammals, including humans.
- 6. There is no specific treatment or vaccine available for Chandipura virus infection. Supportive care, such as antipyretics and anticonvulsants, is given to manage symptoms.
- 7. Prevention methods for Chandipura virus include avoiding sandfly bites by using insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and sleeping under mosquito nets.
- 8. Surveillance and monitoring of sandfly populations in endemic areas are important for early detection and control of Chandipura virus outbreaks.
- 9. Research is ongoing to develop a vaccine against Chandipura virus to prevent future outbreaks and reduce the burden of the disease on public health.
- 10. Public health authorities in endemic regions are working to raise awareness about Chandipura virus, its symptoms, and prevention methods to reduce the risk of transmission and protect vulnerable populations.