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Update on Chandipura Outbreak in Gujarat
Chandipura Outbreak: 148 Cases Reported, 59 Fatalities
Declining Trend Observed Since July 19, 2024
National Joint Outbreak Response Team Deployed to Assist Public Health Measures
August 2, 2024 – The Chandipura virus outbreak in Gujarat has significantly impacted the region, with 148 cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) reported as of July 31, 2024. Among these cases, 140 originate from 24 districts within Gujarat, while neighboring states Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra reported four, three, and one case, respectively. Tragically, 59 individuals have succumbed to the disease, with Chandipura virus confirmed in 51 cases.
Since early June 2024, the outbreak has primarily affected children under the age of 15. However, a promising declining trend in daily new AES cases has been observed since July 19, 2024.
Government Response and Public Health Measures
In response to the outbreak, the Gujarat State Government has implemented various public health measures. These include insecticidal sprays for vector control, increased public awareness campaigns (IEC), sensitization of medical personnel, and ensuring timely referral of cases to designated healthcare facilities.
To further support the state’s efforts, the National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) has been deployed. This team will assist in executing public health strategies and conducting a detailed epidemiological investigation into the outbreak.
Coordination and Advisory Efforts
A review meeting was held to assess the current situation, attended by key health officials, including the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), the Director of the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), and the Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Participants also included representatives from the National Health Mission (NHM) of Madhya Pradesh, Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) units, and Regional Health and Family Welfare offices from Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. Faculty from the NCDC, ICMR, and the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) also participated.
In addition, a joint advisory from the NCDC and NCVBDC is being issued to guide neighboring states reporting AES cases, ensuring a coordinated and effective response across the region.
Background on Chandipura Virus
Chandipura virus (CHPV), a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, is known to cause sporadic cases and outbreaks in western, central, and southern parts of India, particularly during the monsoon season. It is transmitted by vectors such as sand flies and ticks. The virus predominantly affects children under 15 years of age, presenting with febrile illness that can progress to convulsions, coma, and, in severe cases, death.
Currently, there is no specific treatment available for CHPV, and management is symptomatic. However, timely referral of suspected AES cases to designated healthcare facilities can improve patient outcomes. Prevention measures include vector control, maintaining hygiene, and raising awareness among communities.
The combined efforts of national and state health authorities aim to control the outbreak and prevent further spread of the Chandipura virus.
