Context

• The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recently described the current outbreak of Chandipura virus in India as the largest in 20 years. 

Key Highlights:

• Currently, 43 districts across India are reporting cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES).
• Of these, 64 are confirmed cases of Chandipura virus (CHPV) infection.

What is Chandipura Virus?

• Chandipura Virus (CHPV) is a rare and dangerous virus that spreads mainly through mosquito bites.
• This virus was first found in Odisha's Chandipura region of India, hence its name 'Chandipura virus'.
• This virus affects the brain and central nervous system and can cause serious illness.

Symptoms of Chandipura virus include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Muscle pain
• Lethargy
• Seizures
• Meningitis

Treatment and vaccine

• There is no specific treatment or vaccine available for the Chandipura virus yet.
• Treatment: Mainly focuses on alleviating symptoms.
• In severe cases, patients may have to be hospitalised and require intensive care.

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES)

• AES is a serious condition that causes swelling of the brain.
• Causes: It can be caused by various viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites and other factors.
• The most common cause of AES is the Japanese encephalitis virus, which is spread by mosquito bites.