Amid the rise in cases of Chandipura virus in Gujarat, Health Minister Praful Pansheriya on Monday held a crucial review meeting to assess the current situation and measures taken for its control.
The meeting involved a detailed review of cases reported across various districts, the causes of the virus's spread, and the steps taken by the administration.
Infection Statistics and Current Situation
So far, a total of 63 suspected cases of the Chandipura virus have been reported in the state. Out of these cases, test results of 55 patients have been received while reports of eight remaining patients are awaited.
12 patients have tested positive, and among the positive cases, nine patients are from Gujarat, while three are from Rajasthan and are undergoing treatment in the state.
Affected Districts and Surveillance
Health Minister Pansheriya informed that two cases each have been recorded in Gujarat's Panchmahal and Kheda districts. Additionally, one positive case each has been detected in Sabarkantha, Mehsana, Bharuch, Bhavnagar, and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation area.
Pansheriya directed that intensive surveillance be maintained in the specific localities where cases were found. Orders have also been issued to closely examine the travel and case histories of patients to understand the source of the infection.
Containment efforts on a War Footing
As a precautionary measure, the health minister has directed comprehensive health screenings in affected areas, covering thousands of households, including both kutcha (mud/thatched) and pucca (concrete) houses.
Dusting (insecticide spraying) operations are being carried out on a war footing around kutcha houses and livestock enclosures to control sandflies and other insects known to be vectors of the Chandipura virus.
Special Arrangements in Hospitals
To deal with any further rise in cases, the state government has ensured adequate arrangements remain in place at hospitals.
ICU beds, essential medicines, and ventilators for children at civil hospitals and super-specialty hospitals across all district headquarters are arranged.
The Health Minister noted that the virus typically shows heightened activity during the monsoon season, extending up to September.
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Advice for the Public
The Health Minister has urged citizens to remain vigilant. He said that if a child suddenly exhibits symptoms such as high fever, seizures (convulsions), vomiting and diarrhoea, or loss of consciousness, parents should immediately contact the nearest government hospital or a pediatrician without delay.