GUJARAT AND RAJASTHAN: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has deployed a National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) to Gujarat and Rajasthan to strengthen efforts to contain the ongoing Chandipura Virus (CHPV) outbreak, which has primarily affected children.

According to the ministry, Gujarat has reported 35 laboratory-confirmed cases and 22 child deaths during the current monsoon season. Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said that seven children are currently undergoing treatment.

The multidisciplinary NJORT comprises experts from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD). The Centre has also launched an expanded scientific investigation into the outbreak while intensifying surveillance through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).

Officials said experts from several premier research institutions, including the ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology (Chennai), ICMR-National Institute of Vector Control Research (Puducherry), ICMR-National Institute of Virology (Pune), ICMR-National Institute for Pre-Clinical Research (Hyderabad), and the ICAR-National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (Bengaluru), are working with the Gujarat Health Department to study the outbreak.

A major focus of the investigation is to understand how the virus is spreading. While sandflies are recognised as the primary vectors of the Chandipura virus, scientists are also examining whether mosquitoes, ticks, and mites could play a role in transmission. Health authorities said large numbers of vector samples collected from affected areas are undergoing laboratory analysis, and no conclusions will be drawn until the investigations are complete.

The ministry emphasised that early containment is critical, as the virus can progress rapidly, particularly in children. Authorities are focusing on surveillance, vector control, public awareness, and scientific research to prevent further spread.

Health officials have urged the public to maintain hygiene, avoid insect bites, and seek immediate medical attention if children develop symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, or neurological signs. They also advised people to rely on official updates and avoid spreading unverified information while investigations remain ongoing.