Chandipura virus primarily affects children and has been associated with outbreaks of acute encephalitis in India. Read below!
Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a neurotropic virus transmitted primarily through sandfly bites. It is named after the Chandipura village in India, where it was first identified. The virus can cause acute encephalitis, leading to severe complications, particularly in children. Symptoms include high fever, headache, vomiting, seizures, confusion, disorientation, often progressing quickly to sever neurological complications and high mortality rates. Due to rapid disease progression and severe impact on young population, CHPV is a significant public health concern in endemic areas.
Currently, 50 cases of Chandipura virus have been reported in Gujarat and 16 people have lost their lives from the suspected virus, said Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel. Health authorities are working tirelessly to contain the spread.
“In Gujarat, symptoms of Chandipura virus were found in kids which has caused some scare. Seven cases were sent to Pune for lab testing, out of which only one case of Chandipura virus has been found. Only the Chandipura virus is not responsible for all the symptoms such as swelling and diarrhoea. This can also be due to encephalitis. Important information regarding the virus has been circulated in the entire state,” the Health Minister said.
Here are five reasons that explain why the Chandipura virus affects children more severely than adults.
5 REASONS CHILDREN ARE HIGHLY AT RISK OF CHANDIPURA VIRUS
- Weaker Immune Systems: Children typically have weaker immune systems compared to adults. This makes them more susceptible to infections, including the Chandipura virus. Their bodies have fewer antibodies and less ability to fight off new viruses, leading to higher susceptibility to severe infections and complications.
- Neurological Impact: The Chandipura virus is known to cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, which can be particularly devastating in children. Their developing brains are more vulnerable to damage, leading to long-term neurological issues or even death in severe cases.
- Behavioural Factors: Children often engage in outdoor activities, increasing their exposure to environments where sandfly vectors of CHPV thrive. Their increased outdoor exposure heightens their risk of contracting the virus compared to adults.
- Limited Access to Healthcare: In many regions, children may have limited access to timely and adequate healthcare. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can exacerbate the severity of the infection, leading to worse outcomes for affected children.
- Rapid Disease Progression: The Chandipura virus tends to progress more rapidly in children. Symptoms such as high fever, seizures, and encephalitis can develop quickly, leaving less time for medical intervention. This rapid progression can lead to severe outcomes if not promptly treated.