New Delhi: Gujarat continues to see an exponential surge in Chandipura virus , with 50 cases and 16 deaths being reported due to the suspected virus. The Gujarat Health Minister Rishikesh Patel updated recently, additionally he also highlighted the most concerning region is Himmatpur in Sabar Kantha District with 14 cases, 7 of which will need hospitalisation.
As per reports, Himmatpur has seen a rise in 14 cases, 7 needing hospitalisation. The state has reported 50 cases and 16 deaths with the virus spreading it into other states as 3 cases have been found in the patients from outside Gujarat, noted Patel. The minister also spoke about the importance of spreading awareness about the virus. To ensure this the ministry said, health officials have circulated the information linked to the Chandipura virus to each village and Community Health Center.
Dr Nasiruddin G, Consultant-Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road shared with News9 that the Chandipura virus is mainly spread by mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies, is a severe threat, particularly for the children. Moreover there is no vaccination for this yet, hence prevention is very important.
The samples of the infected children have been send to NIV Pune for examination. According to the minister, only the Chandipura virus is not responsible for the symptoms like swelling and diarrhoea. This can also be due to encephalitis.
Symptoms of Chandipura virus
Sudden fever onset.
Vomiting.
Changes in mental status.
Seizures.
Diarrhea.
Impaired neurological function (example difficulty speaking, loss of balance, vision changes)
Prevention
According to Dr G, following some preventive measures can help in reducing the risk of contracting the Chandipura virus. Some of which may include:
To reduce the risk of this virus, use mosquito repellents with DEET and west long-sleeved clothes during the peak mosquito hours ( that is from dawn to dusk)
Try to sleep under mosquito nets and eliminate stagnant water sources around your home. Keep your nearby environment clean, this is due to the ticks and sandflies may also be the carriers of the virus
Chandipura virus logs 50 cases and 16 deaths, updated the Gujarat Health Minister Rishikesh Patel, additionally he also highlighted the most concerning region is Himmatpur in Sabar Kantha District with 14 cases, 7 of which will need hospitalisation. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
