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Chandipura virus: A looming threat to children in India

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Chandipura virus: A looming threat to children in India Dear Editor,The recent report from Gujarat, where six children succumbed to the suspected Chandipura virus (CHPV) infection since July 10, highlights a growing concern that demands national and even global attention.With twelve suspected cases noted so far, the pattern of this outbreak necessitates a deeper understanding of CHPV, its transmission, symptoms, management, and regional impact [1].Chandipura virus is a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, closely related to the virus that causes rabies.It primarily transmits through sandflies, including the Phlebotomine sandflies and Phlebotomus papatasi, with some mosquito species like Aedes aegypti also acting as vectors [2].The virus harbors in the salivary glands of these insects and can transmit to humans or domestic animals through bites.This leads to severe complications, including encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain's active tissues.The initial symptoms of CHPV infection mimic those of the flu-fever, body ache, headache-but can quickly escalate to more severe conditions such as altered sensorium, seizures, and encephalitis.The rapid progression from encephalitis to mortality within 24-48 hours' post-hospitalization underscores the deadly nature of this virus.Historically, the disease has predominantly affected children under 15, making it a significant pediatric concern [3].Fig. 1.Transmission, pathogenesis, and epidemiology of chandipura virus infection.

Source: New Microbes and New Infections

DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2024.101503

Authors: Priyanka Mohapatra, Ashok Kumar Balaraman, Rachana Mehta, Pramod Rawat, Sanjit Sah, Prakasini Satapathy