Chandipura virus: A comprehensive review

Chandipura virus (CHPV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen of significant public health concern, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. The virus was first identified in 1965 during a dengue-like febrile outbreak in the village of Chandipur, Maharashtra, India. CHPV is a bullet- shaped enveloped rhabdovirus with a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA genome. CHPV infections are characterised by fatal acute encephalitis, specifically in the paediatric population under the age of 15, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 57%-70% observed during outbreaks. CHPV transmission is believed to occur via sandflies (Phlebotomus spp.), with additional roles for other arthropod vectors not yet fully ruled out. CHPV infection in humans is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, vomiting, and altered sensorium, progressing swiftly to coma and death in severe cases. Various diagnostic approaches, including serological assays, molecular techniques, animal inoculation, and virus isolation, have been employed for CHPV detection. The lack of specific antiviral treatment or a licensed vaccine compounds the threat posed by CHPV, particularly in resource-limited settings. In the absence of a licenced vaccine, prevention of CHPV infection relies on reducing vector-borne transmission of the virus. This review comprehensively investigates several key questions related to the CHPV, including its epidemiology, transmission mechanisms, clinical presentations, diagnostic techniques, and potential treatments.