GBS: Neurological Society Alerts Public About Guillain-Barré Syndrome Cases in Pune

GBS Guillain-Barré Syndrome
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Pune, 22nd January 2025: A recent outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) has been reported in the Sinhagad Road area of Pune. Health authorities suspect a connection to Campylobacter infection, which is commonly transmitted through contaminated food or water.

What Is GBS?

GBS is a rare but treatable neurological condition where the immune system attacks the nerves, leading to:

  • Weakness in the upper and lower limbs, neck, face, and eyes.
  • Tingling or numbness.
  • Difficulty walking, swallowing, or breathing in severe cases.

The illness often begins suddenly and progresses over the course of 4 weeks. While some patients may experience rapid worsening, others may progress more slowly. Severe cases might require ICU admission and ventilatory support. Treatment options include intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) or plasma exchange (a procedure similar to dialysis).

How Does Campylobacter Cause GBS?

  • Campylobacter Jejuni infection typically occurs after consuming contaminated food or water.
  • It can lead to diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
  • In some cases, the immune response to the bacteria mistakenly targets the nerves, triggering GBS within 1 to 3 weeks.
  • Other known triggers include infections such as dengue, chikungunya, or other viruses and bacteria that can cause abnormal immune reactions against nerves.

Symptoms of Campylobacter Infection:

  • Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Nausea or vomiting

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

How to Protect Yourself:

  1. Ensure Safe Drinking Water
    • Boil water before drinking.
    • Use bottled water if unsure about water safety.
  2. Maintain Food Hygiene
    • Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly.
    • Cook poultry and meat properly (internal temperature should reach at least 75°C).
    • Avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially eggs and seafood.
  3. Practice Personal Hygiene
    • Wash hands with soap and water before eating and after using the toilet.
    • Avoid sharing utensils or food during the outbreak.
  4. Prevent Cross-Contamination
    • Keep raw and cooked foods separate.
    • Disinfect kitchen surfaces and utensils after handling raw meat.

Public Health Update:

Although GBS is a rare disease, with an incidence of 0.1–2 cases per 100,000 people annually, a noticeable rise in cases has been observed in Pune over the past 1–2 weeks, particularly in the Sinhagad Road area. Many affected individuals reported experiencing diarrhea or respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, cold) before the onset of GBS. Outbreaks like this are often linked to bacterial or viral infections.

Authorities are actively investigating the outbreak, while neurologists and other medical professionals are providing treatment to affected patients.

The Neurological Society of Pune reassures the public that GBS is a treatable condition and urges everyone to remain calm.

When to Seek Medical Help:

  • Sudden weakness in the legs or arms.
  • Difficulty walking or numbness.
  • Persistent diarrhea, especially if bloody.

Final Recommendations:

  • Boil water before drinking or preparing food.
  • Consume healthy and hygienic food.
  • Avoid spreading rumors and cooperate with health authorities.
  • If you or someone you know develops symptoms, consult a hospital with a neurologist immediately.