According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Chandipura virus outbreak in 2024 will be the largest outbreak of this viral infection in the last 20 years.

Between early June and August 15, the Union health ministry reported 245 cases of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES), resulting in 82 deaths, a mortality rate of 33%.

Of these, 64 cases were confirmed as Chandipura virus infection, making it the largest outbreak in the last two decades, the WHO said.

Acute encephalitis syndrome is inflammation of the brain, which causes sudden fever and changes 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 to India and has historically caused outbreaks of acute encephalitis syndrome, particularly during the monsoon season in the western, central and southern regions.

The virus is spread by vectors such as sand flies, mosquitoes, and ticks, and poses a public health challenge due to its high mortality rate, ranging from 56% to 75%.

There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine available for Chandipura virus, making early recognition and intensive supportive care crucial in treatment.

Most of the Chandipura virus cases have been reported in Gujarat, with 61 cases in the state and three additional cases in Rajasthan.

Although no cases of human-to-human transmission have been reported, the ongoing monsoon season has created favourable conditions for sand fly and mosquito populations, raising concerns about further spread of the virus in affected areas.

The World Health Organisation has highlighted the importance of preventing bites from sand flies, mosquitoes and ticks to prevent the spread of the virus.

However, there has been a decline in new AES cases since July 19.

Prevention of Chandipura virus

According to the World Health Organization, measures to prevent transmission of Chandipura virus through bites of sandflies, mosquitoes, and ticks should be implemented.

Poor housing and domestic hygiene conditions (lack of waste management or open sewerage) can increase sandfly breeding and resting sites, as well as vector access to humans.

Although there is no specific antiviral treatment and no approved vaccine, early access to supportive care such as standard encephalitis management protocols should be established.

Diagnosis of the disease, educating people about the symptoms among high-risk populations such as children under 15 years of age, and increasing the knowledge of health workers can reduce the spread and outbreak of Chandipura virus.