Image Credits-The Statesman
An alarming outbreak of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) has struck Gujarat, predominantly affecting children under 15 years of age. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has confirmed that since early June 2024, a total of 148 AES cases have been reported. The outbreak has claimed 59 lives, heightening concerns among health authorities and the public.
The majority of the cases, 140, have emerged from 24 districts across Gujarat. Additionally, there have been 4 cases from Madhya Pradesh, 3 from Rajasthan, and 1 from Maharashtra, illustrating the wider spread of the syndrome. Notably, the Chandipura virus (CHPV) has been identified as the causative agent in 51 of these cases.
AES is a severe neurological condition characterized by sudden onset of fever and altered mental status, which can lead to seizures, coma, and death. The Ministry has mobilized resources to contain the outbreak and provide medical care to the affected.
“The situation is critical, and we are doing everything in our power to address this outbreak. Our teams are on the ground, working tirelessly to provide treatment and prevent further spread of the virus,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
In response to the crisis, the state government of Gujarat has intensified surveillance and launched awareness campaigns to educate the public about preventive measures. Health officials are urging parents to seek immediate medical attention if their children exhibit symptoms of AES.
Medical teams are being dispatched to the affected districts to conduct thorough investigations and provide support to local healthcare facilities. The central government is also collaborating with state authorities to ensure adequate supply of medical resources and to facilitate the deployment of expert healthcare professionals.
The Chandipura virus, transmitted by sandflies, has been a cause of previous outbreaks in India. The current outbreak of the virus underscores the need for robust vector control measures and enhanced public health strategies to prevent such incidents in the future.