Gujarat has reported 22 child deaths linked to the latest Chandipura virus outbreak, while 35 of 184 suspected cases have tested positive. The insect-borne virus can rapidly cause brain inflammation, seizures and coma, making early hospital care critical for affected children.
Chandipura Virus Outbreak Raises Concern In Gujarat
Gujarat is witnessing a renewed Chandipura virus outbreak during the 2026 monsoon season. State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said 22 child deaths were suspected to be linked to the outbreak, while 35 of 184 suspected cases had tested positive. Laboratory reports for some deaths were still pending, so the toll should not be presented as 22 fully confirmed Chandipura deaths.
The infection is particularly concerning because it can progress rapidly from fever and vomiting to seizures, unconsciousness and severe brain inflammation. Children showing neurological warning signs require immediate hospital care rather than home treatment.
What Is Chandipura Virus?
Chandipura virus, also known as CHPV, belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and can cause acute encephalitis syndrome. It was first identified in India in 1965 and has since caused occasional outbreaks in western, central and southern parts of the country.
The virus is transmitted by blood-feeding insects. Sandflies are considered the main vector associated with transmission in Gujarat, although mosquitoes and ticks may also carry it. Cases are more commonly reported during the monsoon, when conditions favour the growth of insect populations. No person-to-person transmission has been identified.
How Chandipura Virus Attacks The Brain
The infection may initially resemble a common viral illness, making early detection difficult. Some children can deteriorate quickly as the virus causes acute encephalitis syndrome, a serious condition involving inflammation and dysfunction of the brain.
Possible early symptoms include:
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache
- Repeated vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Weakness or unusual tiredness
- Flu-like symptoms
Emergency warning signs include:
- Seizures or convulsions
- Confusion or unusual behaviour
- Extreme sleepiness
- Difficulty waking the child
- Loss of consciousness
- Breathing difficulty
- Coma
Severe Chandipura illness can progress quickly, sometimes within 48 to 72 hours. Parents should seek urgent medical attention when fever is accompanied by seizures, repeated vomiting, altered consciousness or unusual drowsiness.
Chandipura Virus Treatment And Diagnosis
There is currently no approved vaccine or virus-specific antiviral treatment for Chandipura infection. Hospital treatment is supportive and focuses on keeping the child stable while the immune system fights the virus.
Treatment may involve:
- Medicines to control seizures
- Intravenous fluids
- Fever and symptom management
- Oxygen or breathing support
- Monitoring of brain and organ function
- Intensive-care treatment in severe cases
Doctors may use RT-PCR or IgM ELISA tests to confirm the infection. However, emergency care should not be delayed while waiting for laboratory results when a child shows signs of encephalitis.
Chandipura Virus Prevention Tips
Preventive measures mainly focus on reducing exposure to sandflies and other biting insects.
Families should:
- Use mosquito nets, preferably insecticide-treated nets
- Apply child-safe insect repellent as directed
- Dress children in clothes that cover their arms and legs
- Repair cracks and gaps in walls where sandflies may rest
- Keep houses, cattle sheds and nearby surroundings clean
- Remove stagnant water and waste from residential areas
- Cooperate with spraying and insect-control programmes
- Follow health advisories issued by local authorities
Parents should not panic over every fever, but they should not ignore symptoms that worsen rapidly. A child with fever, vomiting, convulsions, confusion or unconsciousness must be taken to the nearest hospital immediately. Early recognition and intensive supportive care can be critical in reducing the risk of severe complications.
