Chandipura virus

Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a member of the Rhabdoviridae family and the Vesiculovirus genus. It was first identified in 1965 in the village of Chandipura, located in the Nagpur district of Maharashtra, India. The virus is known to cause an acute encephalitic illness, primarily affecting children.

Virology

Chandipura virus is an RNA virus with a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA genome. The virus is enveloped and has a bullet-shaped morphology, characteristic of the Rhabdoviridae family. The genome encodes five proteins: the nucleoprotein (N), phosphoprotein (P), matrix protein (M), glycoprotein (G), and the large protein (L), which is the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase.

Transmission

The primary vectors for Chandipura virus are sandflies of the genus Phlebotomus. The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected sandfly. There is also evidence suggesting that the virus can be transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids.

Clinical Features

Chandipura virus infection typically presents with sudden onset of high fever, followed by symptoms of encephalitis such as seizures, altered mental status, and coma. The disease progresses rapidly and can be fatal, particularly in children. The incubation period ranges from 2 to 4 days.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Chandipura virus infection is primarily based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing of blood or cerebrospinal fluid samples. Serological tests such as ELISA can also be used to detect antibodies against the virus.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific antiviral treatment for Chandipura virus infection. Management is primarily supportive, focusing on reducing fever and managing neurological symptoms. Preventive measures include controlling sandfly populations and using insect repellent to prevent bites.

Epidemiology

Chandipura virus outbreaks have been reported primarily in India, with significant outbreaks occurring in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh. The virus has also been detected in other parts of the world, but human cases are rare outside of India.

See also

• Rhabdoviridae
• Vesiculovirus
• Encephalitis
• RNA virus