New Delhi: Gujarat is facing a severe health crisis with the death of at least 48 people from Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in the past month. According to state health department officials, a significant number of these fatalities are suspected to be linked to the Chandipura virus (CHPV) outbreak.As of Friday, Gujarat has reported 127 cases of AES. Out of these, 39 cases have been confirmed as Chandipura virus infections. The regions with the highest number of positive cases include Sabarkantha and Panchmahal with six each, Aravalli and Kheda with three each, Mehsana with four, Ahmedabad city with three, and Dahod with two, among others.First recorded death and age group impactThe states first confirmed death from the Chandipura virus occurred on July 17, when a four-year-old child, Mota Kanthariya, from Aravalli succumbed to the infection at a government hospital in Sabarkantha. The Chandipura virus predominantly affects children under 15, raising alarm among health officials and the public.Understanding AES and Its CausesAES, characterized by brain inflammation, can be caused by various viruses, including the herpes simplex virus, enteroviruses, and notably the Chandipura virus. The Chandipura virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and is known for causing acute encephalitic illness.At present, 54 patients remain hospitalised, while 26 have been discharged. Health officials highlight that sandflies are the primary vectors of the Chandipura virus. Initial symptoms of the infection include a sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, and muscle pain. As the disease progresses, it can result in altered consciousness, seizures, and in severe cases, coma and death. Early detection and treatment are crucial due to the viruss rapid neurological deterioration.Government response and preventive measuresIn response to the outbreak, health officials have ramped up their investigation and control efforts. The state has deployed rapid response teams and increased surveillance, covering over 41,000 households in affected areas. Preventive measures include extensive dusting and spraying of insecticides in nearly 500,000 houses, over 19,000 schools, and more than 21,000 Anganwadis across Gujarat.
