Chandipura Vesiculovirus: Here’s Everything You Need To Know

Chandipura vesiculovirus (CHPV) is a virus that has captured the attention of medical researchers, especially in certain regions of India. It was first identified in the Chandipura village of Maharashtra in 1965; this virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family. This family is also related to the rabies virus. CHPV is known to cause acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), primarily in children, and can lead to severe and rapid health deterioration if not treated immediately.

Read below this article to learn about Chandipura vesiculovirus, its symptoms, causes, and tips to prevent and manage it.

Chandipura Vesiculovirus: What Is It?

Chandipura vesiculovirus is a neurotropic virus, meaning it has an affinity for nerve tissues. It is primarily transmitted by sandflies. It is most prevalent in tropical regions. This virus has caused several outbreaks in India, particularly in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.

Though it's not recognized as other viruses globally, the mortality rate among children infected during outbreaks has been alarmingly high, ranging from 55% to 75% during specific periods.

Symptoms of Chandipura Vesiculovirus

The symptoms of CPV virus progress rapidly, and the incubation period is typically 2-4 days. The common symptoms include

Sudden high fever
Severe headaches
Frequent vomiting
Seizures and convulsions
Drowsiness and altered consciousness
In severe cases, comatose state

This condition progresses from mild symptoms to life-threatening conditions in a few days. Therefore, it is important to diagnose as soon as the symptoms appear.

Causes

Chandipura vesiculovirus is primarily spread through the bite of infected sandflies, specifically Phlebotomus species, which thrive in warm, tropical climates, particularly India. Sandfly bite is the most common mode of transmission. However, the virus can also spread through direct contact with bodily fluids of an infected person. Moreover, children, especially those under the age of 15, are the most vulnerable group because their immune systems may not be fully developed compared to adults.

In 2003, there was a significant outbreak in Andhra Pradesh, which led to over 200 cases of encephalitis, with a case-fatality rate of nearly 60%. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the virus has caused over 700 cases of encephalitis in India since it was first discovered.

Diagnosis, Treatment, And Prevention

The symptoms overalpase with the signs of other viral infections which makes it difficult to diagnose the condition at an early stage. Generally, blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples are used to confirm the presence of this virus.

There is no cure for CPV infections and must be managed with proper care. Your healthcare provider may recommend antipyretics and anticonvulsants to control fever, reduce discomfort and manage seizures, respectively. If vomiting is frequent, it is essential to keep hydrated. In severe cases, hospitalization in ICU may be deemed necessary.

Some of the best preventive measures to keep your kids protected against this virus includes

Controlling vectors at home by ensuring proper use of insecticides and other vector control strategies.
Using insect repellants especially in areas prone to such outbreaks.
Wearing long sleeved clothing to avoid exposure to sandflies.

Takeaway

Chandipura vesiculovirus is a serious viral infection with a high mortality rate, especially in children. While it is rare, it is still important to take the necessary precautions to prevent the transmission of such a virus. If you suspect any such symptoms, seek your healthcare provider at the earliest.