A scoping review of naturally occurring Chandipura virus in animal hosts and arthropod vectors

Chandipura virus (CHPV), an emerging rhabdovirus endemic to India, causes acute encephalitis, primarily in children. In 2024, India experienced its worst CHPV outbreak in 20 years (245 cases, 33% fatal). Sandflies (family Psychodidae , subfamily Phlebotominae ) are considered the primary vectors, but experimental evidence suggests mosquitoes can support infection under laboratory conditions. Animal host species involved in natural transmission remain unknown. We conducted this PRISMA-guided scoping review to identify evidence of natural CHPV infection in animals and arthropods to assess surveillance and emergence potential. Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar, and three Indian databases (Shodhganga, Krishikosh and CeRA), were searched using predefined terms. Eligible studies included peer-reviewed primary research detecting evidence of CHPV infection (antigen, RNA or antibodies) in arthropods and non-human vertebrate hosts, excluding experimental infection studies. Two reviewers independently screened records, then extracted data on species, location, detection methods and prevalence or seroprevalence. Of 451 screened records (747 total with 296 duplicates removed), 11 met the inclusion criteria. Direct evidence of CHPV infection was reported in phlebotomine sandflies in India, Senegal and Kenya, with low inferred infection prevalence even in outbreak-associated investigations. No evidence was found of natural CHPV infection in wild mosquito or tick populations. Indirect evidence of CHPV exposure (neutralising antibodies) was reported in several livestock species (cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, pigs), dogs and wild toque macaques, and virus was isolated from a single African hedgehog. In conclusion, direct detection of CHPV in sandflies is consistent with their role as vectors, yet the broader animal host range, their role in virus maintenance and amplification, and the ecological drivers of transmission are incompletely understood. This review highlights the need for integrated One Health surveillance and targeted host–vector studies as globalisation and environmental change promote the spread and redistribution of competent vectors.