Chandipura Virus Claims 25 Lives in Gujarat

The Chandipura virus has caused 25 deaths in Gujarat over the past five weeks, with 39 confirmed cases reported across 12 districts in Gujarat and three in Rajasthan.

Health authorities have screened over 1,000 samples of sandflies, mosquitoes, and ticks using RT-PCR tests, but have yet to identify the specific insect or animal carrier of the virus.

The virus primarily affects children under 15, causing Acute Encephalitis Syndrome, with the highest number of current infections reported in Patan with five cases and Sabarkantha with four.