Why in NEWS
The ICMR-National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, has identified Favipiravir as a potential therapeutic drug against the Chandipura virus (CHPV). Early mouse studies showed reduced viral load and improved survival, though human trials are yet to begin.
Key Concepts & Terms
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Chandipura Virus (CHPV) | A neurotropic RNA virus causing fatal encephalitis, mainly in Indian children |
| Arbovirus | Virus transmitted by arthropods like mosquitoes or sandflies |
| Favipiravir | Antiviral drug that inhibits RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) |
| RNA-dependent RNA Polymerase (RdRp) | An enzyme critical for replication of RNA viruses |
| Phlebotomine Sandflies | Insects responsible for spreading CHPV in rural and tribal areas |
News Details
ICMR-NIV’s preclinical animal studies suggest Favipiravir reduces CHPV replication and mortality in mice.
However, these are initial findings. More animal model validations are required before human clinical trials can begin.
About Chandipura Virus (CHPV)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Discovered | 1965, Maharashtra |
| Virus Family | Rhabdoviridae, Genus: Vesiculovirus |
| Genetic Structure | Negative-sense, single-stranded RNA virus |
| Tropism | Neurotropic – affects central nervous system |
| Vulnerable Group | Mainly children under 15 years |
| Transmission Vector | Phlebotomine sandflies (e.g., Phlebotomus papatasi), Aedes mosquitoes |
| Seasonality | Peaks during monsoon due to sandfly breeding |
Symptoms and Impact
| Stage | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Early | Fever, headache, flu-like symptoms |
| Severe | Seizures, encephalitis, coma, respiratory distress, internal bleeding |
| Fatality | Can exceed 50% in outbreaks if untreated |
Favipiravir: Mode of Action and Use
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Developed By | Japan, for influenza treatment |
| Mechanism | Inhibits RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) |
| Use in Other Viruses | Used against Ebola, Zika, Lassa fever, and COVID-19 in emergencies |
| Form | Oral tablet |
Significance of Finding
| Impact Area | Relevance |
|---|---|
| Drug Repurposing | Favipiravir offers a quicker solution compared to new drug development |
| Targeting Neglected Disease | Focuses on a virus with limited global awareness but high fatality in India |
| Public Health | Potential to reduce child mortality in tribal and rural Indian regions |
In a Nutshell
Memory Code: “FAVIRU”
F – Favipiravir shows early success
A – Arbovirus from sandflies and Aedes
V – Vulnerable children are most at risk
I – ICMR-NIV leads the breakthrough
R – Rural outbreaks during monsoon season
U – Urgent need for further trials and solutions
Prelims Practice Questions
- Which vector is primarily responsible for the transmission of Chandipura virus?
A) Culex mosquito
B) Aedes mosquito
C) Phlebotomine sandfly
D) Anopheles mosquito - What is the mechanism of action of Favipiravir?
A) Inhibits DNA polymerase
B) Inhibits reverse transcriptase
C) Inhibits RNA-dependent RNA polymerase
D) Disrupts cell wall synthesis - Chandipura virus predominantly affects which part of the human body?
A) Respiratory system
B) Skin
C) Nervous system
D) Digestive system
Mains Practice Questions
- (GS-3 – Science & Technology)
Discuss the challenges and opportunities in repurposing antiviral drugs like Favipiravir for tackling neglected viruses such as Chandipura. - (GS-2)
What strategies should be adopted to control emerging vector-borne diseases in India’s tribal and rural belts?
Prelims Answer Key
| Qn | Answer | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | C | CHPV is primarily transmitted by Phlebotomine sandflies |
| 2 | C | Favipiravir blocks replication of RNA viruses by inhibiting RdRp |
| 3 | C | CHPV is a neurotropic virus affecting the central nervous system |
