At least 16 people have been confirmed dead from a suspected outbreak of the Chandipura virus in Gujarat, India, according to the state's Health Minister, Rushikesh Patel.
The virus, which primarily affects children, has sparked significant public health concerns due to its rapid spread and severe symptoms.
The Gujarat state government has reported 50 confirmed cases of Chandipura virus, with three cases originating from other states.
Some local media reports cite updated figures, saying the death toll has soared to 27 with the number of suspected cases at 71.
The Chandipura virus, first identified in 1965 during an encephalitis outbreak in the village of Chandipura, Maharashtra, is transmitted through bites from mosquitoes and ticks.
The virus causes symptoms similar to influenza or acute encephalitis, including fever, headache, convulsions, and unconsciousness. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for the virus, making management primarily focused on supportive care and preventive measures.
The National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune is conducting tests to confirm the presence and strain of the virus in suspected cases.
The virus's transient nature, remaining in the body for only three to four days, complicates diagnosis and necessitates prompt sample collection for accurate testing.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any symptoms associated with the virus. They have also advised against unnecessary travel to affected areas and encouraged maintaining high standards of hygiene to curb the virus's spread.
