Centre deploys national joint response team to support States facing a Chandipura virus outbreak
The Indian Health Ministry has deployed a multidisciplinary team to Gujarat and Rajasthan to combat a Chandipura virus outbreak that has caused 22 child deaths. The team is investigating transmission vectors, including sandflies and potential animal reservoirs.
Why it matters
Rapid public health intervention is essential to contain viral outbreaks and prevent further loss of life in vulnerable populations.
The Union Health Ministry has deployed a national team to Gujarat and Rajasthan to strengthen the response to the ongoing Chandipura virus outbreak, which has resulted in at least 22 child deaths this monsoon season. The virus, transmitted largely by sandflies, can cause inflammation of the brain and mostly affects children.
The multidisciplinary national joint response team comprises experts from the National Centre for Disease Control, the Indian Council of Medical Research, and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. It will supplement the efforts of the two State governments in outbreak investigation, epidemiological assessment, clinical management, laboratory coordination, vector surveillance and implementation of public health measures, the Ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.
The team will work closely with State health departments to review the on-ground response and submit recommendations to the Ministry after completing its field assessment.
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