What is Chandipura Virus (CHPV)?

Chandipura virus (CHPV) is an arbovirus in the genus Vesiculovirus that spreads mainly through sandflies and can cause acute encephalitis. In Gujarat, 22 children died during the current monsoon season, 35 children tested positive from 184 suspected cases, and 11 sample results remained pending as of 3 and 4 August 2026.

Chandipura Virus: Basic Classification

Chandipura virus belongs to the family Rhabdoviridae and the genus Vesiculovirus. It is an arbovirus, which means a virus transmitted by arthropods such as insects. Sandflies are the primary vector associated with CHPV transmission in India.

Clinical Features and Affected Age Group

CHPV infection can cause acute encephalitis syndrome, which is inflammation of the brain. The illness can progress rapidly and may lead to severe neurological disease, including multiple organ failure in critical cases. All confirmed patients in the Gujarat outbreak are below 15 years of age.

Outbreak Response and Public Health Measures

Seven positive patients were receiving super-specialist care in civil hospitals at Gandhinagar, Sabarkantha-Himmatnagar, Patan, Rajkot, and Bhavnagar. Six children who tested positive had recovered and been discharged. The Gujarat health department has increased surveillance, treatment, and preventive action, including pesticide spraying in animal husbandry areas to reduce sandfly breeding.

Important Facts for Exams

• Chandipura virus was first identified in 1965 in Chandipura village in Nagpur district, Maharashtra.
• Sandflies are the main vectors for Chandipura virus transmission in India.
• Acute encephalitis syndrome is a major clinical presentation linked with CHPV infection.
• Children are the most vulnerable age group in the Gujarat outbreak, with all confirmed cases below 15 years of age.

Exam-Relevant Static Facts

Arboviruses are viruses transmitted by arthropods and include several medically important pathogens. Encephalitis is a medical term for inflammation of the brain and is a standard topic in biology and public health examinations.