63 Suspected Chandipura Virus Cases Reported in Gujarat So Far; 12 Test Positive

Gandhinagar: A total of 63 suspected Chandipura virus cases have been reported in Gujarat so far, of which 12 have tested positive, Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said after chairing a review meeting on the state’s preparedness and response.

Of the 12 confirmed cases, nine are from Gujarat and three are from Rajasthan. Test results have been received for 55 of the 63 suspected cases, while reports of the remaining eight samples are awaited.

According to the Health Department, the confirmed cases in Gujarat include two each from Panchmahal and Kheda districts, and one each from Sabarkantha, Mehsana, Bharuch, Bhavnagar and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation area.

During the review meeting, officials assessed the geographical spread of cases, possible reasons for transmission, laboratory testing and the measures being taken to contain the virus. The Health Minister directed officials to closely monitor affected areas and conduct detailed investigations into the travel and case histories of patients to trace the source of infection.

The government said extensive health screening has been carried out in affected areas, covering thousands of households. Dusting operations are being undertaken around mud houses and cattle sheds to control sandflies and mosquitoes, which are considered potential carriers of the virus. District civil hospitals and super-specialty hospitals have also been instructed to ensure adequate ICU beds, ventilators and essential medicines for children.

The Health Minister noted that Chandipura virus activity is generally higher during the monsoon and continues until September. As the virus primarily affects young children, parents have been advised to seek immediate medical attention if a child develops symptoms such as high fever, convulsions, vomiting, diarrhoea or loss of consciousness. He said the health system is on alert and urged citizens not to panic while following necessary precautions. DeshGujarat