Listen to Story The Chandipura virus outbreak in 2024 is the largest outbreak of this viral infection in the past 20 years, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Between early June and August 15, the union health ministry reported 245 cases of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES), resulting in 82 deaths, a case fatality rate of 33%. Among these, 64 cases were confirmed as Chandipura virus infections , making this the largest outbreak in the past two decades, the WHO said.
Acute encephalitis syndrome is an inflammation of the brain characterised by a sudden onset of fever and a change in mental status, such as confusion, disorientation, delirium, or coma. It can also cause seizures, irritability, vomiting, personality changes, and altered consciousness. ALL ABOUT CHANDIPURA VIRUS Chandipura virus a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, is endemic in India and has historically caused outbreaks of acute encephalitis syndrome, especially during the monsoon season in western, central, and southern regions.
The virus is transmitted by vectors such as sandflies, mosquitoes, and ticks, and is a public health challenge due to its high case-fatality ratio, which ranges from 56% to 75%. Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for Chandipura virus, making early detection and intensive supportive care important in treatment. Chandipura virus has caused outbreaks of acute encephalitis syndrome.
(Photo: Getty Images) The majority of the Chandipura virus cases have been reported in Gujarat, with 61 cases confirmed in the state and an additional three cases in Rajasthan. While no human-to-human transmission has been reported, the ongoing monsoon season has created favourable conditions for sandfly and mosquito populations, raising concerns about further spread of the virus in the affected areas. The WHO has highlighted the importance of protecting against bites from sandflies , mosquitoes, and ticks to prevent further spread of the virus.
The majority of the Chandipura virus cases have been reported in Gujarat, with 61 cases confirmed in the state and an additional three cases in Rajasthan. (Photo: Getty Images) Since July 19, however, a decline in new AES cases has been observed. PREVENTION OF CHANDIPURA VIRUS As per WHO, measures to prevent transmission of the Chandipura virus from bites of sandflies, mosquitos, and ticks should be implemented.
Poor housing and domestic sanitary conditions (lack of waste management or open sewerage) may increase sandfly breeding and resting sites, as well as vector access to humans. Although there is no specific antiviral treatment and no approved vaccines, early access to supportive care such as standard encephalitis management protocol should be set in place. Diagnosing the disease, education people about symptoms among high-risk populations like children under 15 years of age, and increasing healthcare worker knowledge can lower the spread and outbreak of Chandipura virus.
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