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What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) – the rare neurological disorder which is gripping Pune

Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. It is triggered by pathogenic bacteria Campylobacter jejuni.

Pune in Maharashtra has recorded a total of 73 cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare and alarming neurological disorder. Reports suggest that there has been a spike in the number of cases, including six newly suspected cases. The surge in the number of cases has prompted authorities to intensify investigations into the unusual rise.

According to the Maharashtra State Health Department, there are 47 men and 26 women suffering from the disease. Out of these, 14 are currently on ventilator support. So far, no GBS-induced death has been reported. Generally, 1-2 cases of GBS are reported every month in large hospitals of the city.

What is GBS – The Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. It is triggered by pathogenic bacteria Campylobacter jejuni. Other known triggers are infections from other viruses including dengue, chikungunya, or bacteria can trigger the disease. The disease leads to muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the limbs, and, in some cases, severe difficulties in breathing or swallowing. The disease affects the nerves responsible for muscle movement and those that carry sensations like pain, temperature, and touch. Though the condition is more common in adults, especially men, it can affect individuals of all ages.

The disease spreads through contaminated food or water. Despite its severity, health officials have assured the public that GBS does not pose a risk of becoming an epidemic or pandemic. Recently, authorities have detected the pathogen in stool samples from multiple hospitals which added to evidence linking the bacteria to the outbreak. Boiling water before drinking and cooking food properly, especially meat like pork etc can save general public from getting infected.

Authorities investigate sudden surge in cases

Responding to the spike in the number of GBS cases, the state health department has formed a Rapid Response Team (RRT) to investigate the cause. The RRT has been working closely with local health authorities and the Pune Municipal Corporation to monitor and control the situation. Many patients reported diarrhea or respiratory symptoms in the initial stages of the onset.

The Central Surveillance Unit (CSU) of the Union Health Ministry has also taken congnisance of the rising number of cases. The ministry will soon send a team of doctors to assist local authorities. Joint Director of epidemiology department, Dr Babita Kamalapurkar, has briefed the CSU about the patient’s profiles.

Ongoing surveillance and public outreach

Health authorities are reportedly proactively surveying the affected areas. Several surveys have been conducted across various wards, including the Pune Municipal Corporation, Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, and surrounding rural regions. So far, 7,200 homes have been surveyed, with over 1,900 houses surveyed within the PMC limits and more than 3,500 homes in rural areas.

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OpIndia Staff
OpIndia Staffhttps://www.opindia.com
Staff reporter at OpIndia

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