Gujarat Faces Acute Encephalitis Syndrome Outbreak: 59 Children Lost
In early June, an outbreak of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) began in Gujarat, affecting children under 15 years old. By July 31, 140 AES cases were reported in the state, with 59 fatalities.
According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, a total of 148 AES cases have been reported in India. Of these, 140 are from Gujarat, four from Madhya Pradesh, three from Rajasthan, and one from Maharashtra. The Chandipura virus (CHPV) has been confirmed in 51 cases.
The situation was reviewed by health officials, including the Director General of Health Services, the National Center for Disease Control, and the Indian Council of Medical Research. A declining trend in new AES cases has been observed since July 19.
Gujarat has implemented various public health measures such as insecticidal spraying for vector control, medical personnel sensitization, and timely referral of cases to designated facilities. A National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) has been deployed to assist in these efforts.
CHPV, a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, causes sporadic cases and outbreaks, especially during the monsoon season. It is transmitted by vectors like sand flies and ticks. The disease primarily affects children under 15, leading to symptoms such as fever, convulsions, coma, and sometimes death. While there is no specific treatment, timely medical intervention can improve outcomes.
Doubts Revealed
Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) -: AES is a serious illness that causes inflammation in the brain. It can make people very sick, especially children, and sometimes it can even cause death.
Gujarat -: Gujarat is a state in western India. It is known for its rich culture and history.
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare -: This is a part of the Indian government that looks after the health and well-being of people in India. They make sure hospitals and doctors are doing their job properly.
Chandipura virus -: This is a type of virus that can cause AES. It is spread by small insects like sand flies and ticks.
Vector control -: This means taking steps to reduce or eliminate insects like mosquitoes, sand flies, and ticks that can spread diseases.
Medical sensitization -: This means teaching doctors and nurses about the disease so they can recognize it quickly and treat it properly.
Sand flies and ticks -: These are tiny insects that can bite people and spread diseases. Sand flies are very small and live in sandy areas, while ticks are a bit bigger and can be found in grassy or wooded areas.