The Gujarat government has stepped up surveillance and emergency health measures following a rise in Chandipura virus infections among children. While 22 child deaths have been reported in connection with the outbreak, officials have clarified that not every suspected case has been confirmed as Chandipura virus after laboratory testing.
The Health Department said monitoring has been intensified across the state, with hospitals placed on high alert and preventive measures being expanded to contain the spread of the disease during the monsoon season.
35 Cases Confirmed, Several Samples Still Under Examination
State Health Minister Praful Panseriya said Gujarat has recorded 184 suspected cases so far. Laboratory tests have confirmed Chandipura virus infection in 35 patients, while reports of 11 additional samples are still awaited.
According to the government, seven children remain admitted to government hospitals and are receiving treatment, while six patients have recovered and have been discharged.
Officials stressed that suspected infections should not automatically be considered confirmed Chandipura virus cases until laboratory results are available.
Hospitals Directed To Strengthen Critical Care
The Health Department has instructed both government and private paediatric hospitals to ensure immediate admission of children showing symptoms associated with the virus.
Special ICU facilities equipped with oxygen support and ventilators have been kept ready to manage severe cases and reduce the risk of complications such as multiple organ failure. Children are currently undergoing treatment under specialist supervision at hospitals in Gandhinagar, Himmatnagar, Patan, Rajkot and Bhavnagar.
Government Intensifies Sandfly Control Measures
As Chandipura virus is primarily transmitted through sandflies, authorities have launched an extensive vector-control campaign across vulnerable areas.
Residents have been advised to fill cracks in mud houses and earthen walls where sandflies may breed, cooperate with insecticide spraying drives, and support surveillance teams conducting awareness campaigns in villages, particularly in livestock-rearing regions.
Officials believe reducing sandfly breeding and resting sites remains one of the most effective methods to curb transmission.
No Approved Vaccine Yet; Early Treatment Remains Crucial
The state government reiterated that there is currently no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for Chandipura virus. Health experts emphasised that prompt diagnosis and immediate hospitalisation remain the best available strategy for improving patient outcomes.
Parents have been advised to seek urgent medical attention if children develop symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, seizures, excessive drowsiness or sudden behavioural changes, as the illness can progress rapidly.
Authorities Appeal Against Rumours
The Gujarat government has urged the public not to panic or circulate unverified information regarding the outbreak. Officials said surveillance, medical preparedness and public awareness efforts are being carried out under the supervision of the state administration to ensure a coordinated response.
Health authorities continue to advise families to remain alert, follow preventive measures and seek timely medical care whenever symptoms appear.
