World needs to focus on Chandipura Virus outbreak in India as spread escalates and death toll reaches 52
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jul 28, 2024 1 month, 2 weeks, 6 days, 16 hours, 51 minutes ago
Medical News: A Silent Global Threat
While the world remains preoccupied with the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19, H5N1, and Mpox, another silent and potentially devastating threat is emerging from India. The Chandipura virus, a less-publicized but highly lethal virus, has caused significant concern with its rapid spread and high mortality rate. Within a short span of just two weeks, the virus has claimed 52 lives, and the number of cases is suspected to be in the hundreds.
World needs to focus Chandipura Virus outbreak in India as spread escalates and
death toll reaches 52
Thailand
Medical News was among the first to report on its outbreak in India on the 14
th of July 2024 and also gave a subsequent update on the 22nd Of July.
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/chandipura-vesiculovirus-outbreak-emerges-in-gujerat-india-killing-4-hospitalizing-2-more-cases-expected
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/chandipura-virus-outbreak-escalating-in-india-cases-now-in-three-states-with-gujerat-reporting-84-cases-and-32-deaths
It is now believed that the virus is already in more than 8 states in India at the moment despite Indian state and federal health authorities trying to downplay or conceal the concerning situation. It is strongly believed that the death rates and infection rates are much higher that what is being officially reported.
Despite its transmission primarily through vectors like mosquitoes and sandflies, the lack of strict monitoring of cargo from India and screening of Indian travelers raises the risk of the virus spreading globally. The potential consequences of a worldwide outbreak are alarming, given the high fatality rate associated with the virus. There are already unconfirmed reports of the virus potentially spreading to neighboring countries such as Bangladesh and Myanmar, underscoring the urgency for international attention and action.
Rising Toll in Gujarat
In Gujarat, the situation is particularly dire. The state has witnessed a sharp increase in cases and fatalities linked to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES), a condition often caused by the Chandipura virus. On Friday, the death toll rose to 52, with four new deaths reported - two in Kutch district and one each in Rajkot and Jamnagar. Additionally, six more cases of Chandipura virus were confirmed, bringing the total number of confirmed new infections to 45.
The overall number of AES cases in Gujarat has reached 130, with 45 of these cases (35%) being confirmed as Chandipura virus infections. The state currently has 38 patients undergoing treatment, while 40 have been discharged. Notably, six cases have been reported from the neighboring state of Rajasthan, with two fatalities amon
g them. Health officials are urging residents in affected areas to seek immediate medical attention if a child exhibits symptoms such as high-grade fever and convulsions or fits.
The escalation of AES cases and fatalities in Gujarat is alarming. In the span of 24 hours, 17 new AES cases were reported.
In Bengaluru, a rise in high-grade fever cases among children is causing concern among parents. While doctors attribute most of these cases to viral infections such as dengue and emphasize the importance of monitoring hydration levels, the lack of proper diagnostics is raising questions as to whether the Chandipura virus has also reached Bengaluru.
According to a local doctor, about 25 cases are reported weekly, with dengue accounting for 70% of them as claimed. Death rates are also rising from such infections.
Maintaining hydration and proper nutrition is crucial for managing symptoms and ensuring recovery.
The Broader Impact In India
In addition to Gujarat, other states and districts are also grappling with the Chandipura virus outbreak. Experts reviewing the situation in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh found that a proportion of AES cases are due to infectious agents like the Chandipura virus. It is now believed that at least a total of 8 states in India are affected by the virus including Kartanaka.
Preventive Measures and Future Outlook
Preventing the spread of the Chandipura virus requires concerted efforts to avoid sandfly bites and implement community-wide insecticide spraying. Health officials are emphasizing the importance of using insect repellents and reducing outdoor activities, especially in endemic areas. The virus, first identified in 1965, predominantly affects children under the age of 15 and causes severe neurological issues, making early diagnosis and treatment critical.
The emergence of the Chandipura virus as a significant contributor to AES cases highlights the need for increased surveillance, research, and international cooperation to address this growing threat.
Conclusion
The world cannot afford to ignore the escalating Chandipura virus outbreak in India. With a death toll of 52 and hundreds of suspected cases, the virus poses a significant global health risk. Immediate and coordinated efforts are needed to monitor, control, and prevent the spread of the virus to other regions. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for the international community to focus on this emerging threat and take proactive measures to safeguard public health.
For more on the Chandipura virus Outbreak in India, keep on logging to Thailand
Medical News.
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/nipah-virus-outbreak-reported-in-kerala-india-teen-dies-4-in-icu-and-246-under-isolation
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