Chandipura Virus: Concerns Grow over Children’s Health. Symptoms, Contagion, and Risks for Italy

Chandipura Virus Outbreak in India

An alarming situation is unfolding in India due to the surge in Chandipura virus cases, which has already claimed the lives of 19 people, mostly children.
This highly lethal virus has been known since the 1960s and is currently causing significant casualties in certain areas of India.

International Response and Research

While the virus is currently isolated in specific regions, the international community is closely monitoring the situation.
An upcoming international study will shed more light on the outbreak.
The Medical Statistics and Molecular Epidemiology Unit at the Campus Bio-Medico University in Rome has developed a platform to monitor cases effectively and provide a comprehensive global view of the epidemic with prompt and coordinated responses.

What is Chandipura Virus and How is it Transmitted?

Chandipura virus is resurfacing in India, claiming 19 lives and infecting 51 individuals in a matter of days.
Named after the village where it was first discovered in the 1960s, this pathogen is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies, targeting the brain and proving lethal, especially in children.
Similar to rabies, it can cause encephalitis, putting lives at risk.
The mechanism of how the virus penetrates the central nervous system is still unclear.
It is believed to produce a phosphoprotein in brain cells within 6 hours of infection, explaining its rapid lethality.
Initial symptoms mimic influenza, including fever and weakness, but rapidly progress to encephalitis, coma, and potentially death within 24-48 hours.
Children under 15 are particularly vulnerable.

Concerns for Italy?

At present, the virus remains confined to a few areas in India where high temperatures and dense populations facilitate its spread.
Consequently, there is currently no cause for concern in Italy.
However, since the virus is transmitted by vectors like mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies found in Europe as well, and with the increasing occurrence of tropical climates in European regions, the possibility of the virus proliferating in the West cannot be ruled out in the future.
Due to the severity of the disease, constant monitoring of its progression is crucial.

Experts assert that there is no immediate danger or reason for alarm.
Nevertheless, updates from India should be taken seriously, as there is no certainty that the Chandipura virus will not reach other regions in the future.
Given its year-round stability, it is essential to closely monitor the situation and expedite efforts to develop treatments and vaccines to avoid being caught off guard.

Read more about Tick-Borne Viruses in Italy and Why They Raise Concerns.