The Chandipura virus has recently emerged as a health concern in Gujarat, causing anxiety among residents and healthcare professionals. This virus is known to spread through sandflies and can lead to severe health issues, especially in children. Symptoms often start with a sudden high fever, headache, and vomiting, quickly progressing to more serious conditions like encephalitis (brain inflammation). The Gujarat health authorities are actively monitoring the situation, advising people to take preventive measures such as using insect repellents and ensuring proper sanitation to control the spread of the virus.
Tags: GS-3, Science & Technology- Basic Biology- Virus
Context:
- Recently, Gujarat has witnessed a concerning outbreak of suspected Chandipura virus (CHPV) infections, resulting in fatalities among children.
- 6 children died or 12 suspected cases have been reported of Chandipura virus infection in Gujarat.
- Four of these 12 patients are from Sabarkantha district, three from Aravalli, and one each from Mahisagar and Kheda, Two patients are from Rajasthan, and one is from Madhya Pradesh.
What is CHPV infection?
- CHPV (Chandipura Virus) is a virus belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family, which also includes other notable viruses like the lyssavirus responsible for rabies.
- It is primarily transmitted by several species of sandflies such as Phlebotomine sandflies and Phlebotomus papatasi.
- As well as certain mosquito species like Aedes aegypti, which is also known for transmitting diseases like dengue fever.
How does CHPV infection occur?
- Vector Transmission: The virus resides in the salivary glands of these infected insects, particularly sandflies and mosquitoes.
- Bite Transmission: When an infected sandfly or mosquito bites a human or another vertebrate host (such as domestic animals), the virus is transmitted through the insect’s saliva during the feeding process.
- Infection and Spread: Once transmitted, the virus enters the bloodstream and can subsequently invade the central nervous system.
- Potential Effects:
- CHPV infection can lead to serious complications such as encephalitis, which is characterised by inflammation of the brain’s active tissues.
- This inflammation can cause neurological symptoms and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening.
What are the symptoms of CHPV infection?
- Initial Symptoms:
- Flu-like Symptoms: Patients typically experience an acute onset of fever, body ache, and headache. These symptoms resemble common viral infections.
- Progression to Severe Symptoms:
- Altered Sensorium: As the infection progresses, individuals may develop altered consciousness or confusion, which can be indicative of neurological involvement.
- Seizures: Some patients may experience seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain.
- Encephalitis: The hallmark of severe CHPV infection is encephalitis, characterised by inflammation of the brain’s active tissues. This condition can lead to more pronounced neurological symptoms and is a critical phase of the illness.
- Additional Reported Symptoms:
- Respiratory Distress: In some cases, respiratory distress may occur, which can manifest as difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Bleeding Tendencies: There have been reports of bleeding tendencies, although these are less common.
- Anaemia: Anaemia, characterised by a deficiency in red blood cells or haemoglobin, has also been noted in retrospective studies.
- Severity and Mortality:
- Rapid Progression: The infection often progresses rapidly, especially after the onset of encephalitis.
- High Mortality Rate: Studies indicate that mortality can occur rapidly, sometimes within 24-48 hours of hospitalisation, particularly in severe cases.
- Affected Population:
- Age Group: Susceptibility to CHPV infection is primarily observed in children below 15 years of age. They tend to be more vulnerable to severe outcomes of the infection
How can the infection be managed?
- Supportive Care:
- Fluid Management: Maintaining hydration is crucial, especially if there are signs of dehydration due to fever or other symptoms.
- Fever Control: Administering antipyretic medications to manage high fever can help alleviate discomfort and prevent complications associated with hyperthermia.
- Neurological Support:
- Monitoring and Management of Encephalitis: Since CHPV infection often progresses to encephalitis, close neurological monitoring is essential. This may include measures to control seizures and manage altered sensorium.
- ICU Care: Patients with severe symptoms, especially those exhibiting neurological involvement, may require intensive care unit (ICU) management for close monitoring and supportive therapy.
- Respiratory Support:
- Ventilatory Support: In cases where respiratory distress occurs, providing oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation may be necessary to support respiratory function.
- Complication Management:
- Management of Bleeding Tendencies: If bleeding tendencies manifest, appropriate measures to control bleeding and maintain hemostasis are crucial.
- Addressing Organ Dysfunction: Rapid disease progression can affect organs such as the kidneys or liver. Supportive measures to manage organ dysfunction are essential.
- Preventive Measures:
- Vector Control: Since sandflies and mosquitoes act as vectors for CHPV, vector control measures such as insecticide spraying and use of mosquito nets can help prevent further transmission.
- Public Awareness: Educating communities about preventive measures, early recognition of symptoms, and seeking prompt medical care can aid in reducing the spread and impact of the infection.
- Research and Surveillance:
- Vaccine Development: Continued research into vaccine development and antiviral therapies is essential to combat CHPV infection effectively in the future.
- Epidemiological Surveillance: Monitoring outbreaks and understanding the epidemiology of the virus can inform public health responses and preventive strategies.
Which are the worst affected regions in India?
- Maharashtra: CHPV was first isolated during investigations into a dengue and chikungunya outbreak in Maharashtra in 1965. The state has witnessed significant outbreaks over the years.
- Gujarat: During the outbreak in 2004, Gujarat reported a particularly high case fatality rate (CFR) of around 78%. This underscores the severity of the virus in the state during that period.
- Andhra Pradesh: In 2003, Andhra Pradesh also experienced a notable outbreak, with a CFR estimated at around 55%.
Has the disease pattern changed over the years?
- Yes, the disease pattern of CHPV (Chandipura Virus) infection has shown notable changes over the years, as observed by experts like Dr. Sandipkumar Trivedi. Here are the key changes reported:
- Vector Behavior:
- Traditionally, sandflies, the primary vectors of CHPV, were known to remain close to the ground, not flying at heights exceeding 3 feet.
- However, recent surveillance has identified sandflies on terraces and higher elevations, indicating a potential shift in their behaviour and distribution.
- Disease Manifestation:
- During recent outbreaks, new presentations such as brain haemorrhages have been observed in patients infected with CHPV.
- This suggests variations in the severity and clinical outcomes compared to earlier reported cases.
- Emergence of New Outbreak Centers:
- Previously unaffected or less-affected areas are now becoming new centres of outbreaks.
- For example, in Gujarat, cases have been suspected in tribal areas like Pavagadh, Khedbrahma, and Godhra, indicating a geographical spread beyond traditional hotspots.
Conclusion:
The resurgence of Chandipura virus in Gujarat underscores the persistent public health challenge posed by vector-borne diseases. Enhanced surveillance, vector control measures, and community awareness are crucial to containing outbreaks and mitigating the impact of CHPV infections in vulnerable populations.
UPSC Civil Services Examination PYQ
Prelims
Q:1 Which of the following statements is not correct?(2019)
- Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.
- Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
- Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV.
- Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.
Ans: (b)
Source: IE
FAQs
Q: What is the Chandipura virus?
Answer: The Chandipura virus is a virus that can cause severe illness, primarily affecting children. It is transmitted through sandflies and can lead to symptoms like fever, headaches, and in severe cases, encephalitis (brain inflammation).
Q: Why is the Chandipura virus in the news in Gujarat?
Answer: Recently, there have been reports of Chandipura virus cases in Gujarat. Health authorities are monitoring the situation closely to prevent an outbreak and to ensure the virus does not spread further.
Q: What are the symptoms of the Chandipura virus?
Answer: Symptoms of the Chandipura virus include sudden high fever, severe headaches, vomiting, and sometimes seizures. In serious cases, it can cause encephalitis, leading to confusion, drowsiness, and even coma.
Q: How can one prevent the Chandipura virus?
Answer: Preventing the Chandipura virus involves avoiding sandfly bites. This can be done by using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and ensuring living areas are clean and free of sandflies. Sleeping under mosquito nets can also help.
Q: What should someone do if they suspect Chandipura virus infection?
Answer: If someone shows symptoms of the Chandipura virus, they should seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and supportive care are crucial. Doctors can provide treatments to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
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