Pune: PCMC Reports 28 GBS Cases in Pimpri Chinchwad; 13 Patients Hospitalized, 1 on Ventilator
Reported by Varad Bhatkhande
Pimpri Chinchwad, 11th February 2025: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has reported 28 cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Pimpri Chinchwad. Of these, 14 patients have been discharged, one has died, and 13 remain hospitalized. PCMC Chief Shekhar Singh stated, “One patient is currently on a ventilator at Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial Hospital in Pimpri.” He assured the public that the situation is under control and that authorities are well-prepared to manage the crisis.
In response to the outbreak, Singh confirmed that PCMC has taken action against 51 water ATMs and RO plants, leading to their confiscation. “We will be working with the state government in the coming days to establish regulations for these water ATMs and RO plants,” he added. He also mentioned that the sealed units would be reopened once new guidelines are implemented.
The first suspected GBS-related death in Pimpri Chinchwad occurred on 30th January 2025. The victim was a 36-year-old Ola-Uber driver from Pimple Gurav, who was admitted to YCMH on 21st January 2025 with flu-like symptoms.
GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes rapid-onset muscle weakness. The outbreak in Maharashtra has resulted in over 190 suspected cases and seven deaths, with Pune identified as the epicentre.
In response to the crisis, local authorities have implemented several preventive measures. Singh explained, “We have intensified our surveillance efforts and are conducting house-to-house surveys.” Additionally, the PCMC has increased chlorination of water sources and launched public awareness campaigns, urging citizens to consume only boiled water and properly cooked food.
The outbreak is suspected to be linked to water contamination, with E. coli detected in several sources. All civic bodies in Pune District, including the Pune Municipal Corporation and PCMC, are working towards its prevention and treatment.
