Lagatar24 Desk
Pune: A concerning outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare autoimmune disease, has been reported in Pune, with 73 cases identified as of Friday. This marks a sharp increase from the initial 26 cases reported earlier in the week. Fourteen patients are currently on ventilator support, but no fatalities have been reported.
GBS, a treatable condition, occurs when the immune system attacks the nerves. Experts have identified the pathogenic bacteria Campylobacter jejuni as a potential trigger for the outbreak. Stool samples collected from multiple hospitals confirmed the presence of this bacteria.
Authorities Respond With Surveys and Awareness
In response to the outbreak, health authorities in Maharashtra have launched door-to-door surveys to identify symptoms and raise awareness. Over 7,200 homes have been surveyed in two days, focusing on symptoms such as numbness in limbs and prolonged diarrhea.
Dr. Babita Kamalapurkar, Joint Director of the Epidemiology Department, briefed the Union Health Ministry’s Central Surveillance Unit (CSU) about the outbreak. The CSU has taken cognizance and will dispatch a team of doctors to assist local authorities.
Patient Distribution and Impact
The cases are distributed across Pune rural (44), Pune Corporation area (11), and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation belt (15). Notable clusters include Kirkitwadi (14 cases), DSK Vishwa (8), Nanded City (7), and Khadakwasala (6). Among the patients are three children under five years old and seven individuals above 60 years.
Healthcare facilities, including Sassoon Hospital, are preparing to combat the outbreak by stocking necessary medicines and injectables. The hospital is currently treating 16 GBS patients.
GBS Overview and Precautionary Measures
GBS often results in muscle weakness and numbness, with severe cases leading to paralysis. Municipal surveyors are educating the public about recognizing early symptoms to facilitate timely treatment.
