Rajasthan Reports Two Chandipura Virus Deaths; Health Department Intensifies Surveillance
The Rajasthan Health Department has stepped up surveillance in three districts following the deaths of two girls from Chandipura virus (CHPV) infections. The children died while undergoing treatment in Gujarat, officials confirmed on Thursday.
A six-year-old from Ratanpura village in Dungarpur district died at the Civil Hospital in Himmatnagar, Sabarkantha, Gujarat. A two-year-old from Sirohi district died at a hospital in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Both tested positive for the Chandipura virus.
As of July 24, the current outbreak has recorded nine confirmed deaths from Chandipura virus: seven in Gujarat and two in Rajasthan. Health authorities have intensified monitoring in Dungarpur, Sirohi, and Udaipur districts to contain the spread.
Chandipura virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and spreads through the bite of infected sandflies and small insects commonly found in rural areas. The virus can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), with symptoms including fever, headache, and altered consciousness. Early detection and supportive care are critical for survival.
The Health Department has urged residents in affected areas to take preventive measures such as using mosquito nets, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating breeding sites for sandflies. Medical teams have been deployed for door-to-door surveillance and to raise awareness about the disease.
