TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Context: The Chandipura virus outbreak in Gujarat refers to a recent occurrence of infections caused by the Chandipura virus, a virus known to cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Sandflies primarily transmit the virus and has been associated with outbreaks in various parts of India, including Gujarat.
Explanation:
About Chandipura virus
The virus was first identified in India in the Chandipura area of Gujarat, which is how it got its name. Also known as Chandipura vesiculovirus (CHPV), it is a Ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus belonging to the Rhabdoviridae family.
- It also includes the rabies virus.
- It was first identified in 1965in Chandipura, a village in
- It primarilyaffects children (aged 9 months-14 years) and has been associated with outbreaks of acute encephalitis in India.
- Transmission: Spread through the sting of a vector-infected sandflyand is seen more in rural areas.
Transmission:
- The primary vector for the Chandipura virus is the sandfly (Phlebotomus species). Sandflies become infected with the virus when they feed on the blood of infected animals, and they can transmit the virus to humans through their bites.
- The Chandipura virus has been reported primarily in parts of India, particularly in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. There have also been occasional reports from neighboring countries.
Symptoms:
- Incubation Period: Typically, 7-12 days after infection.
- Initial Symptoms: Sudden onset of fever, headache, body ache, and malaise.
- Severe Symptoms: Can progress to neurological symptoms such as convulsions, stupor, and coma. Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) is a serious complication that can lead to death in severe cases.
Prevention:
- Vector Control: Reducing sandfly populations through environmental management, such as clearing breeding sites and using insecticides.
- Personal Protection: Using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets.
- Community Measures: Public health campaigns to raise awareness and promote preventive measures.
Treatment: There is no specific antiviral treatment for Chandipura virus infection. Management is mainly supportive, including the treatment of symptoms and complications. Hospitalization may be required for severe cases, especially those with neurological involvement.
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