GBS: 138 Water Sources in Pune Found Contaminated Amid Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak

Pune, 7th March 2025: Following an outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in the Sinhagad Road area, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a water testing campaign. Tests conducted at 138 locations have found the water unfit for drinking. In response, the PMC’s Health Department has issued a warning and directed the Water Supply Department to ensure the supply of clean water to affected areas.

So far, 224 suspected GBS cases have been reported across Maharashtra, with 195 confirmed. Pune has recorded the highest number of cases, including 46 within the Pune Municipal Corporation limits, 95 in newly merged villages under PMC, 33 in Pimpri-Chinchwad, and 36 in Pune rural areas. Additionally, 14 cases have been reported in other districts. The Health Department has confirmed 11 deaths due to GBS.

To identify the source of the outbreak, the municipal authorities are collecting and testing water samples. A total of 7,195 samples have been tested so far, with 138 found unsafe for consumption. These contaminated sources include water from Khadakwasla Dam, private wells, private reverse osmosis (RO) systems, and tankers. Whenever a case of GBS or diarrhea is reported, officials trace the patient’s drinking water source, and samples from the respective supply are sent for testing at PMC’s Parvati Water Purification Center and the State Public Health Laboratory.

If contamination is detected, the Health Department advises the Water Supply Department to take corrective measures. The contaminated water has been found to contain E. coli and coliform bacteria, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. “To prevent further health risks, it is crucial to ensure the supply of clean water to affected areas,” said Dr. Nina Borade, PMC Health Chief.