Temporal Trends in Outbreaks of Chandipura Viral Infection in India: A Systematic Review

Chandipura virus (CHPV) has emerged as a significant cause of acute encephalitis in India, especially affecting pediatric populations. This study aimed to analyze the temporal trends, clinical characteristics, and epidemiological features of CHPV infections reported in outbreaks across India. A comprehensive literature search on CHPV cases was conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library. Original research studies on laboratory-confirmed clinical cases of CHPV infections, available as full-text articles, were included. Data on outbreak characteristics, clinical presentations, diagnostics, and epidemiological factors were extracted and analyzed. Six studies met the inclusion criteria. The review revealed a geographical expansion of CHPV outbreaks across India over time, with a consistent seasonal pattern (May to September) coinciding with the monsoon season. CHPV predominantly affects children under 15 years of age, presenting with rapid-onset encephalitis characterized by high fever, altered consciousness, and seizures. Case fatality rates were alarmingly high, ranging from 28.6% to 78.3% within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. Diagnostic approaches evolved over the study period, with increasing use of molecular techniques. Entomological investigations consistently identified sandflies, particularly Phlebotomus argentipes, as potential vectors, though their precise role in transmission remains to be fully elucidated. CHPV is an emerging public health threat, especially for children under 15 years. Early diagnosis is crucial, as CHPV is associated with high mortality within the first 24-48 hours of symptom onset. Challenges include limited long-term follow-up data, potential underreporting of mild cases, and gaps in understanding transmission dynamics.