Chandipura Virus Concerns Rise in Saurashtra as Two More Children Die in Jamnagar; Case Reported in Gondal

Concerns over Chandipura virus have intensified across parts of Saurashtra after two more children died at Jamnagar’s GG Hospital, while a three-month-old girl from Panchiyavadar village in Gondal taluka tested positive for the infection.

With the latest deaths, the number of children who have died at the Jamnagar hospital after showing Chandipura-like symptoms has risen to three. Six children were reportedly admitted to the hospital, although health officials said the test reports of the two latest fatalities were negative for Chandipura virus.

Reports of four other children from Jamnagar and Rajkot have also reportedly returned negative. The exact cause behind the serious condition of the affected children remains under investigation.

Chandipura Case Confirmed in Gonda

A three-month-old girl from Panchiyavadar village in Gondal taluka has tested positive for Chandipura virus. Following the confirmation, health teams were sent to the area and intensive surveillance was carried out.

However, concerns have been raised over the need for a wider survey of residents living in poorly maintained and unhygienic housing in the area. According to the information available, a comprehensive survey by the local municipality and panchayat has not yet been conducted.

Six Suspected Cases Reported in Rajkot

A total of six suspected Chandipura cases have been reported in Rajkot district, with one case confirmed so far. The development has prompted health authorities to intensify surveillance in affected areas.

Chandipura virus was first identified in Maharashtra in 1956. It is primarily spread by sandflies and can cause severe illness, particularly among children. Gujarat and Maharashtra have reported several cases in the past.