The Health Department has gone on high alert following the deaths of two young girls due to Chandipura virus infection in Rajasthan. Both girls were undergoing treatment in hospitals in Gujarat, where test reports confirmed the infection. Consequently, the Health Department has intensified surveillance in Rajasthan’s border districts and launched a door-to-door survey campaign. Health officials state that while there is no need for panic at present, it is crucial to consult a doctor immediately if symptoms appear in children.
The first case is from Ratanpura village in the Simalwara block of Dungarpur district. A six-year-old girl suddenly fell ill on July 12. Her family took her to a local private hospital the following day. As her condition deteriorated, she was admitted to government civil hospitals in Meghraj, Modasa, and later Himmatnagar in Gujarat. Suspecting Chandipura virus infection, doctors sent samples for testing on July 14. The girl passed away on the morning of July 15 during treatment. Later, on July 23, a report from the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre confirmed the infection.
The second case is from Sirohi district. A two-year-old girl from the area was undergoing treatment at a hospital in Banaskantha, Gujarat. The Chief Medical and Health Officer of Sirohi confirmed that the girl also died due to Chandipura virus infection.
According to health experts, the Chandipura virus primarily spreads through the bites of sandflies and certain other insects. These insects are often found near livestock. For this reason, livestock in the affected areas are being examined, and insecticide spraying is being carried out with the assistance of the Animal Husbandry Department. Doctors note that this infection can rapidly become severe, particularly in children up to 15 years of age.
What are the symptoms of the Chandipura virus?
Sudden high fever.
Persistent vomiting.
Seizures or convulsions.
Lethargy, unconsciousness, or altered mental state. Development of symptoms resembling brain fever (acute encephalitis).
If timely treatment is not received, this infection can even be life-threatening.
