Chandipura virus has killed 22 in Gujarat, highlighting the deadly brain infection’s symptoms, risks, outbreaks, and prevention in India.
The recent 22 deaths in Gujarat due to complications linked to the Chandipura virus have once again drawn attention to one of India’s deadliest yet lesser-known viral infections. According to Gujarat Health Minister Praful Panseriya, 35 patients tested positive among 184 suspected cases, while several critically ill patients continue to receive treatment in intensive care units (ICUs) on ventilators and oxygen support.
Although the current outbreak has raised alarm, Chandipura virus is not a new disease in India. The virus has caused multiple outbreaks over the past several decades and is known for triggering acute encephalitis, a severe inflammation of the brain that can rapidly become life-threatening, particularly in children under the age of 15.
What is Chandipura virus?
Chandipura virus (CHPV) is an emerging viral pathogen belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family. It was first identified in 1965 during an outbreak of a dengue-like illness in Chandipur village of Maharashtra, from which it derives its name.
The virus is primarily transmitted through infected sandflies, although mosquitoes and ticks are also believed to play a role in its spread. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported outbreaks mainly in western, central, and southern India. Unlike many viral infections, Chandipura virus can progress extremely quickly, attacking the nervous system and causing severe brain inflammation within hours.
Why is it so dangerous?
The biggest concern with Chandipura virus is its ability to cause acute encephalitis syndrome (AES). This condition involves inflammation of the brain, which can lead to swelling, neurological damage, coma, and death if not treated promptly. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Altered consciousness or confusion
- Irritability
- Loss of coordination
- Coma in severe cases
Doctors warn that symptoms can worsen rapidly, making early diagnosis and immediate hospitalization critical.
Why are children most at risk?
Most reported cases involve children below 15 years of age, whose developing immune and nervous systems may be more vulnerable to severe complications.
The virus typically circulates during the monsoon season, when sandfly populations increase. Rural and tribal regions with higher exposure to insect vectors often report the highest number of infections.
No vaccine or specific treatment yet
One of the major challenges in controlling Chandipura virus is that there is currently no approved vaccine or antiviral treatment. Medical care mainly focuses on supportive treatment, including:
- Intensive care monitoring
- Oxygen therapy
- Mechanical ventilation if required
- Intravenous fluids
- Medicines to control seizures and reduce complications
Studies cited by the WHO estimate the virus has a case fatality rate ranging from 56 to 75 per cent, making it one of the deadliest viral encephalitis infections reported in India.
India has seen outbreaks before
The current Gujarat outbreak follows several earlier outbreaks across the country. Some of the most significant include:
- 2024: India reported 245 Chandipura virus cases and 82 deaths, with Gujarat recording the highest number of infections.
- 2003: Andhra Pradesh reported 329 suspected cases and 183 deaths, one of the largest outbreaks on record.