Health Ministry reviews Chandipura virus, Acute Encephalitis Syndrome cases in Gujarat, Raj and MP

On July 20, 2024, the Union Health Ministry, led by Dr. Atul Goel and experts from AIIMS and other institutions, reviewed Chandipura Virus (CHPV) and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) cases in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The review found that infectious agents contribute minimally to AES cases. Emphasizing the need for extensive studies, a central team will assist Gujarat. Since June, Gujarat has reported 78 AES cases, with 28 fatalities and nine confirmed CHPV cases. The disease mainly affects children and has no specific treatment, focusing on symptomatic management and timely referrals.