Centre Steps Up Response as Chandipura Virus Threatens Two States
Central team deployed as Gujarat reports cases and deaths.
The Centre has intensified efforts to contain an outbreak of Chandipura Virus Disease in Gujarat and Rajasthan after Gujarat reported 35 laboratory-confirmed infections and 22 deaths among children during the ongoing monsoon season. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has deployed a National Joint Outbreak Response Team to both states to strengthen containment and investigation measures.
Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said on Monday that seven children affected by the disease were undergoing treatment. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation as the outbreak continues to pose a serious public health concern, particularly because of its impact on children and the number of deaths reported in the state.
The multidisciplinary response team includes experts from the National Centre for Disease Control, the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Their combined expertise is expected to support state authorities in investigating infections, assessing possible transmission patterns and coordinating an effective public health response.
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The ministry said the deployment is being accompanied by an expanded scientific investigation involving multiple institutions. The study aims to improve understanding of the virus, including its transmission dynamics, clinical spectrum and epidemiological characteristics, while also examining potential treatment approaches that could help guide the management of affected patients.
Continuous surveillance is being conducted through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, coordinated by the NCDC in collaboration with surveillance units in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The NCDC’s Public Health Emergency Operations Centre has also been activated to support coordination, data assessment and response activities related to the outbreak.
Authorities are working to strengthen surveillance, identify suspected cases and improve coordination between central and state agencies. The joint response is intended to provide scientific and operational assistance to the affected states while helping health officials develop a clearer understanding of the outbreak and determine appropriate measures to control its spread.
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