Chandipura virus: why the first 24 hours can save children

A virus called Chandipura has made some children seriously ill in Gujarat.

The virus is spread by tiny biting insects called sandflies, not by touching or being near sick kids.

Children younger than 15 get the sickest, and 22 children died in the recent outbreak.

The illness starts like a normal fever with headache, body aches and vomiting.

But it can quickly attack the brain, causing seizures, sleepiness and confusion.

The first 24 hours are the most important time to get medical help.

There is no medicine or vaccine that kills this virus yet.

Doctors help by treating symptoms in a hospital, like stopping seizures and reducing brain swelling.

Parents can protect kids by using insect repellent, long sleeves and bed nets, and by keeping homes clean.

If a child has a sudden high fever and seems very sleepy, confused or has a seizure, go to the hospital right away.