Recent research has demonstrated the feasibility of using Favipiravir as a therapeutic option when it comes to Chandipura virus (CHPV). These preclinical studies were performed by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune, and showed that it was capable of decreasing the viral load in tissues and improving survival time in treated animals. Chandipura virus is classified endemic to central India, and predominantly impacts younger children when severe symptoms include high fever, and seizures.
Overview of Chandipura Virus
The Chandipura virus is a member of the Rhabdoviridae family, and is a zoonotic agent transmitted by sandflies. It was first identified in 1965 from human cases in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The Chandipura virus is an aetiological agent of encephalitis, or the inflammation of the brain. The latitude of symptoms caused by the Chandipura virus can range from fever and vomiting to altered level of consciousness to convulsions.
Transmission and Vector
CHPV is primarily transmitted through its vector, the female Phlebotomine sandfly, which primarily rears in early monsoon season. Recent studies have suggested that certain mosquito species including Aedes aegypti can transmit CPHV under laboratory conditions, however there have been no known isolations of CHPV in the vector of mosquito.
Clinical Manifestations
The primary clinical manifestation of CHPV infection is fever followed by neurological changes. Children < 15 years have been noted to be more vulnerable to severe clinical presentations of CHPV’s acute encephalitis syndrome. The outbreak in Andhra Pradesh, in 2003, reaffirmed the mortality rate in young children who acquired CHPV infection, and indicated a mortality rate in the range of 38 out of 39 cases, with most of the deaths occurring within 48 hours of hospital admission.
Treatment
At the present time, there is no antiviral treatment specific for CHPV. The mainstay of management is symptomatic management, directed primarily toward airway, breathing and circulation. Fluid balance, temperature control and seizure control are the most important considerations. Currently, clinical research is underway to assess the application of Favipiravir as a potential drug, but it is not yet being assessed in clinical trials in humans.
Prevention of Infection
Preventing infection of CHPV depends on vectors management. The identification of breeding sites of sandflies and eliminating those sites is key, as well as using insecticides and sanitation. Personal protective measures (i.e. long clothing) and repellents to minimize bites are recommended.
Future Directions
Current research is ongoing to develop a CHPV vaccine. The National Institute of Virology is attempting to do so, as the measures at hand and methods of controlling CHPV are not adequate, particularly with respect to the number of deaths caused by the virus in children. The efficacy of Favipiravir will be studied through preclinical trials as well as the preclinical information obtained prior to human testing.
