MISINFORMATION OF CHANDIPURA STORY

Srashti Vishwakarma and Dinesh Kumar Jain*

ABSTRACT

Chandipura virus (CHPV) is a significant encephalitic pathogen in the Indian subcontinent, causing severe
outbreaks and isolated instances of en cephalitis, particularly among children under 15. Initially identified in India,
CHPV has been linked to numerous epidemics across various states, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and
Maharashtra. The virus is classified within the Rhabdoviridae family a nd exhibits close phylogenetic ties to
Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV). Although initially presumed to be confined to India, it has been found in human
cases in Nigeria, hedgehogs in Senegal, and wild toque macaques in Sri Lanka. The prevailing hypothesis suggests
that the virus is predominantly disseminated by sandflies, although other arthropod vectors may also contribute to
its transmission. The virus's alarming propensity to induce severe forms of encephalitis in pediatric populations, its
status as an emerging infectious agent, and its inherent capability for extensive human to human transmission,
highlights the critical necessity for the ongoing implementation of rigorous surveillance systems, comprehensive
research initiatives, and the development of effective preventive strategies.

Keywords: Chandipura virus, Viruses, Mosquitoes, Misinformation, Sandfly.