Gandhinagar, August 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Gujarat has recorded 41 laboratory-confirmed Chandipura virus cases and 27 deaths since the current surveillance period began on June 30, according to the latest data released by the state Health Department.
As of 5 p.m. on August 14, authorities had received reports of 257 suspected Chandipura virus cases across the state. Laboratory results have been received for 246 cases, while test reports for 11 samples are awaited.
Of the samples tested so far, 41 have returned positive for Chandipura virus, indicating a substantial rise from the figures reported earlier during the outbreak.
On July 21, Gujarat had reported 63 suspected cases, including 12 laboratory-confirmed cases, while results for eight samples were pending. Health authorities subsequently intensified surveillance in affected areas and stepped up vector-control measures around residential premises and cattle sheds.
Chandipura virus is a vector-borne infection associated with Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and primarily affects children. It is mainly transmitted through infected sandflies, with outbreaks reported particularly in parts of central and western India.
The National Centre for Disease Control has noted that the infection can cause sudden fever and neurological symptoms, with children below 15 years considered particularly vulnerable.
As part of the response, health authorities have been carrying out surveillance and containment measures in affected areas, including door-to-door screening and efforts to control sandfly populations. Insecticide spraying, cleanliness drives and public awareness activities have also been undertaken in affected villages.
The latest outbreak comes two years after Gujarat was among the states severely affected by a major Chandipura outbreak.
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for Chandipura virus. Symptoms can include sudden fever, vomiting, seizures and altered mental status, with the condition potentially deteriorating rapidly.
Preventive measures include reducing exposure to sandflies through protective clothing, mosquito or insect nets and repellents, along with maintaining sanitation and implementing vector-control measures.
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