The number of suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in Maharashtra has risen sharply to 163, with five new cases detected in Pune. The total number of confirmed GBS cases in the state now stands at 127, while the suspected cases are spread across Pune city, rural areas, and surrounding districts.
According to officials, the 163 suspected cases include 32 from Pune city, 86 from newly identified villages within the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits, 18 from Pimpri Chinchwad, 19 from Pune rural areas, and eight from other districts. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported as of Monday, although 47 patients remain in the ICU, with 21 on ventilator support. Additionally, 47 patients have been discharged following treatment.
In response to the outbreak, the state health department’s rapid response team (RRT) has been investigating the potential causes behind the increase in GBS cases, particularly in clustered areas. The RRT has directed health officials to focus efforts on these areas in order to contain the situation.
The issue has also raised concerns over water quality, as 168 water samples from various parts of Pune city were sent for chemical and biological testing. The analysis revealed contamination in samples from eight different water sources, prompting further investigations into whether the contaminated water could be linked to the GBS outbreak.
GBS is a rare neurological disorder in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, causing muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the limbs, and in some cases, difficulty in breathing and swallowing. While it is most commonly observed in adults and males, the condition can affect individuals of all ages, with severe cases leading to near-total paralysis.
The state health department has been working closely with the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which has appointed a multi-disciplinary team to help manage the GBS outbreak. New public health intervention guidelines are expected to be issued soon to tackle the growing number of cases and ensure appropriate management of the situation.
As authorities continue to monitor the situation, both the state and local health departments are urging the public to remain vigilant, particularly in affected areas, while awaiting further instructions on managing the outbreak.
Sources By Agencies
