With the onset of the monsoon, the increasing cases of mosquito-borne diseases in many states of the country have become a cause of concern for health experts, meanwhile, a suspected virus in Gujarat has doubled the problems. According to media reports, six children have died due to infection with the Chandipura virus in Gujarat in the last five days. With this, the suspected cases of infection have now increased to 12.
State Health Minister Rushikesh Patel said, that out of the 12 suspected patients, four are from Sabarkantha, three from Aravalli, and one each from Mahisagar and Kheda. Two patients are from Rajasthan and one from Madhya Pradesh, who were treated in Gujarat. So far six deaths have occurred, but only after the results of the samples come, it will be clear whether the cause of death was the Chandipura virus or something else.
According to reports, pediatricians at the civil hospital in Himmatnagar had suspected the Chandipura virus to be the cause of the death of four children on July 10. Later, four more children at the hospital showed similar symptoms. "Chandipura virus is not contagious. However, intensive surveillance has been done in the affected areas. 18,646 people in 4,487 households have been screened. The health department is continuously working to prevent the spread of the disease," the health minister said.
Chandipura virus infection
Chandipura virus (CHPV), a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, is more prone to infection in rural areas. It mostly affects children and initially produces influenza-like symptoms. It is transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks, and certain types of flies.
Severe cases of infection can lead to acute encephalitis (swelling of the brain). Patients who do not receive timely treatment are also at risk of dying.
This infectious disease is fatal
Cases of Chandipura viral infection are quite rare but there is a risk of fatal conditions arising due to it. This infection, which starts with fever, and flu-like symptoms, can cause encephalitis in children. In severe cases, there is a risk of coma and even death due to this. The mortality rate due to this infection has been seen to be 56 to 75 percent.
Treatment and prevention of infection
Since Chandipura virus infection is quite rare, there is no proper treatment for it yet. However, timely detection of the infection and initiation of supportive treatment can reduce the risk of it taking a serious form and brain-related disorders.
Health experts say efforts should be made to keep children safe from this infectious disease. Avoid going to fields or bushes in affected areas. Protect yourself from mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. It becomes most important to know about the symptoms of infection and get timely treatment.
(PC: ISTOCK)
