Gujarat Reports 52 Chandipura Virus Cases Amid Encephalitis Surge

Gandhinagar, Gujarat: Gujarat has reported a concerning rise in cases of acute viral encephalitis over the past month, with a total of 140 cases documented, according to Dr. Nilam Patel, Additional Director (Public Health). Among these, 52 cases have tested positive for Chandipura virus, which has been identified across 28 districts in the state.

"Chandipura encephalitis happens because of a sandfly bite," Dr. Patel explained, highlighting the vector responsible for the disease. The outbreak has resulted in 58 deaths due to acute viral encephalitis, of which 28 have been specifically attributed to Chandipura encephalitis.