Chandipura virus claims 22 lives in Gujarat: Why children are most vulnerable, what parents should watch for, symptoms, treatment and government action

Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya on Monday announced that 22 people have died while 35 people have tested positive for the Chandipura virus out of 184 suspected patients whose blood samples were tested. At present, seven patients remain in intensive care units (ICUs) on ventilator and oxygen support under the supervision of specialist doctors.

The Gujarat health department has stepped up surveillance and testing in the affected areas and is continuing efforts to identify, isolate and monitor suspected cases.

Recent reports of Chandipura virus infections in Gujarat have once again drawn attention to the little-known but potentially deadly virus. Although rare, doctors warn that the infection can rapidly affect the brain, particularly in children, with symptoms worsening within just two to three days.


Unlike many viral illnesses, Chandipura virus has no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine. Health experts say early diagnosis and immediate hospital care remain the most effective ways to improve survival. According to the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the virus has caused periodic outbreaks in India, particularly during the monsoon when sandflies—the primary carriers—are more active.

A rare virus that can turn severe quickly

Dr Manju Kedarnath, Senior Consultant and Clinical Lead – Paediatrics, PICU & Paediatric Emergency at KIMS Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru, said the disease progresses rapidly, making early recognition critical.

Chandipura virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, which also includes the rabies virus, although it causes a different illness. It is transmitted mainly through the bite of infected sandflies. Most outbreaks have been reported from western and central India during the rainy season.

Children face the highest risk

The infection typically begins with a sudden high fever, severe headache, nausea and fatigue. In severe cases, it can quickly spread to the brain, causing vomiting, restlessness, seizures and loss of consciousness. Without prompt treatment, the disease can progress to coma and death within 48 to 72 hours of symptom onset.

Children below the age of 15 are considered the most vulnerable because their developing immune and nervous systems may be more susceptible to severe neurological complications.

Doctors advise parents not to ignore high fever accompanied by repeated vomiting, unusual behaviour or excessive drowsiness. While these symptoms do not necessarily indicate Chandipura virus, they can signal brain inflammation and require immediate medical evaluation.

Warning signs that require urgent medical care

Doctors recommend seeking medical attention without delay if a child develops any of the following symptoms:

• Sudden high fever above 101°F
• Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea
• Convulsions or seizures
• Changes in behaviour or confusion
• Reduced alertness or loss of consciousness

Early supportive treatment in hospital can help doctors manage complications and improve the chances of recovery.

No vaccine or antiviral treatment

There is currently no approved antiviral drug or vaccine for Chandipura virus. As a result, treatment focuses on supportive care, including managing fever, seizures, dehydration and neurological complications.

The virus is associated with a high case fatality rate, estimated at 56% to 75% during previous outbreaks, underscoring the importance of early hospitalisation.

Prevention is the best defence

Since the virus spreads through infected sandflies, reducing exposure to insect bites is the most effective preventive measure. Health experts recommend dressing children in long-sleeved clothing, using child-safe insect repellents and insecticide-treated bed nets where appropriate.

Maintaining clean surroundings, disposing of waste properly, improving sanitation and eliminating potential breeding sites around homes can also reduce the risk of sandfly exposure.

Sandflies are much smaller than mosquitoes and are commonly found near dense vegetation, animal shelters, damp areas and places with poor sanitation.