Gujarat Steps Up Surveillance as Chandipura Virus Cases Rise

Gujarat has recorded 225 suspected cases of Chandipura virus since June 30, according to the latest figures released by the state Health Department on Monday. Of these, 39 cases have been confirmed through laboratory testing, while 25 deaths have been reported among patients who tested positive for the virus. The number of suspected cases has increased by 41 from the 184 reported during the state's previous briefing earlier this month. However, the number of laboratory-confirmed infections remains at 39. Deaths among Chandipura-positive patients have risen from 22 to 25. Laboratory testing has been completed for 212 of the 225 suspected cases, while results of the remaining 13 samples are awaited. The number of confirmed cases could therefore change once the pending reports are received. The latest figures cover the period from June 30 to August 10. The outbreak was first detected in Panchmahal, where two young children died in early July after developing symptoms linked to Chandipura infection. The deaths prompted authorities to intensify surveillance, testing and vector-control measures in the affected areas. Cases were subsequently reported from other parts of the state. On July 20, the Health Department had reported 63 suspected cases, of which 12 had tested positive. At that stage, results of eight samples were still pending. Health Minister Praful Pansheriya had said that the department was closely monitoring the affected areas, examining patients' travel and case histories, and strengthening vector-control measures. By the beginning of August, Gujarat had reported 184 suspected cases, 35 confirmed infections and 22 deaths. Reports at that time stated that all confirmed patients were below 15 years of age. The infection was not confined to a single village or district and had been reported from different parts of Gujarat. Chandipura virus is a vector-borne infection that can cause acute encephalitis syndrome, particularly among children. It is primarily associated with transmission through sandflies and tends to occur more frequently during the monsoon season. During an earlier outbreak, the Health Department had advised doctors to refer suspected paediatric cases without delay to hospitals equipped with oxygen and ventilator facilities. Pansheriya had also said that laboratory testing was being expedited to ensure timely diagnosis. With 13 laboratory reports still pending, health authorities continue to monitor and investigate suspected cases as Gujarat keeps a close watch on the outbreak.