16 Dead in Rare Chandipura Virus in Western India, Transmitted Through Mosquito, Tick Bites

JAKARTA - Health Minister of Gujarat State, western India Rushikesh Patel said, at least 16 people have been confirmed dead due to the rare Chandipura virus.

"14 cases of Chandipura virus have been reported in Himmatpur, seven of whom have been treated. Three cases of Chandipura virus came from other states. 50 cases of Chandipura virus have been reported across the state and 16 people have died," he was quoted as saying by NDTV on July 22.

Earlier this week, the state authorities reported 29 cases and one death, as reported by TASS.

Patel said, information regarding this has been conveyed in every village and Community Health Center, while the Chief Minister has held meetings with collectors, District Health Offices (CDHOs), and medical colleges.

Earlier, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reviewed the situation in the state amid the Chandipura virus and noted the steps taken to control the epidemic.

The Chief Minister directed officials to carry out a campaign of spraying Malathion powder in districts to prevent the disease. He also asked officials to ensure immediate intensive care is provided to patients if they develop any type of fever.

The virus is said to be transmitted through mosquito and tick bites. It was first isolated in 1965, during an encephalitis outbreak in Chandipura village, Maharashtra state.

Little is known about the disease. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine against it.

Chandipura virus causes fever with symptoms resembling influenza or acute encephalitis. Chandipura virus outbreaks occur in India from time to time, but the disease has never been recorded outside the country.

An outbreak of the virus, with a fatality rate of between 56 percent and 76 percent, was recorded in central India in 2003-2004. This virus is very deadly in children.