WHO Reports Largest Chandipura Virus Outbreak in India in 20 Years

The WHO has identified the current outbreak of the Chandipura virus in India as the largest in 20 years. With 245 cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome and 82 deaths reported, the infection rate is high. The virus, endemic in parts of India, is transmitted by vectors like sandflies, and no specific treatment or vaccine exists.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that India is experiencing the largest outbreak of the Chandipura virus in two decades. Between early June and August 15, the Ministry of Health recorded 245 cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), including 82 deaths, resulting in a 33% fatality rate.

This outbreak spans across 43 districts, with 64 confirmed cases of the Chandipura virus (CHPV). While CHPV outbreaks occur regularly, this is the largest in 20 years, according to the WHO's Disease Outbreak News published on August 23.

The Chandipura virus, a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, causes sporadic cases and AES outbreaks in various parts of India, particularly during the monsoon season. Notably, Gujarat experiences a rise in CHPV outbreaks every four to five years. The virus is transmitted by vectors such as sandflies, mosquitoes, and ticks, and has a high case fatality rate of 56-75% with no specific treatment or vaccine available.

(With inputs from agencies.)