Chandipura Virus Outbreak

Update #1 Date- 21/07/2026

Occurrence Update

Gujarat is witnessing a renewed outbreak of Chandipura virus (CHPV), a rare but highly fatal viral disease that primarily affects young children. As of 21 July 2026, the state has reported 12 laboratory-confirmed cases, prompting the Health Department to intensify surveillance, clinical preparedness, and vector-control activities.

Earlier in the outbreak, seven confirmed infections and three deaths among children under 10 years of age were reported. The increase in confirmed cases has raised concerns due to the virus's rapid progression and high case fatality among paediatric patients.

About the Disease

Chandipura virus belongs to the Vesiculovirus genus of the Rhabdoviridae family and is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected sandflies, especially Phlebotomus species.

The disease is endemic to parts of central and western India and has been associated with outbreaks of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), particularly during the monsoon season. There is currently no evidence of person-to-person transmission.

Mode of Transmission

Chandipura virus (CHPV) is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected female sandflies, particularly those belonging to the Phlebotomus species. Sandflies acquire the virus by feeding on infected vertebrate hosts and can subsequently transmit it to humans during blood feeding.

The disease predominantly occurs during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, when sandfly populations increase.

Symptoms

The disease mainly affects children below 15 years of age and has a short incubation period. Initial symptoms include:

Sudden onset of high fever
Severe headache
Vomiting
Altered consciousness
Convulsions or seizures

In severe cases, the infection rapidly progresses to acute encephalitis, coma, and death within 24–48 hours if not managed promptly. There is no specific antiviral treatment, and management is primarily supportive.

Diagnosis

Laboratory diagnosis includes detection of viral RNA by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) from blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or throat swab samples during the early phase of illness.

Early diagnosis is important because the disease can progress rapidly, especially among children with fever and neurological symptoms.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for Chandipura virus infection. Treatment is supportive and includes fever management, seizure control, intravenous fluids, respiratory support if needed, and intensive care for severe cases.

Early diagnosis and prompt supportive care are essential to improve survival and reduce the risk of severe complications.

Prevention

Preventive measures focus on avoiding sandfly bites, reducing breeding sites, and strengthening public health surveillance. Important prevention steps include:

Prevent sandfly bites by using insecticide-treated bed nets, repellents, and wearing long-sleeved clothing.
Maintain clean surroundings and eliminate sandfly breeding sites.
Strengthen vector surveillance and insecticide spraying in affected areas.
Ensure early detection and prompt medical care for children with fever and neurological symptoms.
Promote community awareness about the disease and preventive measures.

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