The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that the current outbreak of the Chandipura virus (CHPV) in India is the largest in two decades. Between early June and mid-August, the Ministry of Health reported a significant surge in Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) cases, with a high mortality rate and widespread geographical impact. This outbreak highlights the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and vector control measures to manage and mitigate the virus’s spread.
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- The WHO has identified the current outbreak of the Chandipura virus (CHPV) in India as the largest in 20 years.
- From early June to August 15, India reported 245 cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), with 82 deaths, resulting in a case fatality rate (CFR) of 33%.
- AES cases have been reported in 43 districts across India, with 64 cases confirmed as CHPV infection.
- CHPV, a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, causes sporadic AES outbreaks, particularly during the monsoon season in western, central, and southern India.
- Previous outbreaks of CHPV have occurred every four to five years in Gujarat.
- The virus is transmitted by vectors like sandflies, mosquitoes, and ticks, with a high CFR of 56-75%, and there is no specific treatment or vaccine available.
- Early access to care and intensive supportive care can improve survival rates, according to the WHO.
- The WHO recommends enhanced surveillance in high-risk areas, especially for children under 15 with fever and central nervous system symptoms.
- A decline in new AES cases has been observed since July 19, but no human-to-human transmission has been reported.
- The WHO advises vector control and protection measures, including insecticidal spraying and public education, to prevent further spread of CHPV.
