Rising Cases of Chandipura Virus Claim Lives of Six Children in Gujarat

Six children have died from the suspected Chandipura virus in Gujarat, raising the total cases to 12. Health Minister Rushikesh Patel confirmed that the samples have been sent for verification. The virus causes flu-like symptoms and encephalitis and is transmitted by vectors like mosquitoes. Intensive surveillance is underway.

Gujarat has reported six fatalities and a rising number of suspected Chandipura virus cases, increasing concerns in the region. State Health Minister Rushikesh Patel announced that the total number of suspected cases has reached 12, with samples sent to Pune's National Institute of Virology for confirmation.

The Chandipura virus, which causes fever and symptoms similar to the flu, along with acute encephalitis, is spread by vectors including mosquitoes, ticks, and sand flies. Four of the patients hail from Sabarkantha district, with others from Aravalli, Mahisagar, and Kheda in Gujarat, as well as Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. All received treatment in Gujarat.

Patel emphasized that intensive surveillance is being conducted in affected areas, with nearly 18,646 individuals screened across 4,487 homes to prevent further spread. He noted that Chandipura virus is not contagious. The health department is making every effort to control the outbreak.