Daijiworld Media Network - Gandhinagar
Gandhinagar, Aug 8: Gujarat has recorded 217 suspected cases of Chandipura virus since June 30, with 39 testing positive and 23 deaths reported among confirmed patients, according to the latest state Health Department figures released on Saturday.
The data, covering June 30 to August 8, shows that laboratory testing has been completed for most suspected cases. Results for 208 of the 217 samples have been received, while reports for nine samples are still awaited.
The latest figures represent an increase from earlier Health Department briefings as surveillance and testing were expanded across the state.
On July 14, the department had reported 27 suspected cases, of which seven were positive and 12 negative, while results for eight samples were pending. At the time, three children who had tested positive had died.
The outbreak initially drew attention in Panchmahal district after two young children from villages in Godhra taluka died following infection with the virus.
Following the deaths, the Health Department intensified door-to-door surveillance and insecticide spraying in affected areas. Hundreds of health teams were deployed in Panchmahal to examine residents and collect samples.
By mid-July, suspected infections had been reported from several districts, prompting authorities to step up monitoring and testing.
Chandipura virus is primarily transmitted by sandflies and can cause acute encephalitis syndrome, particularly among children. The illness can progress rapidly, making early detection and treatment crucial.
An earlier Health Department briefing in the first week of August had reported 184 suspected cases, 35 confirmed infections and 22 deaths.
The latest figures therefore indicate a further rise in suspected and confirmed infections, along with one additional death.
Health authorities have continued surveillance and laboratory testing to identify suspected cases and monitor the spread of the virus across Gujarat. The nine pending laboratory reports will determine whether additional suspected cases are confirmed.