Guillain-Barre Cases on the Rise in Maharashtra: Health Authorities on High Alert

Maharashtra : Maharashtra is witnessing a concerning rise in Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases, with 167 confirmed infections and seven suspected deaths. Health authorities have intensified their response, sealing 30 water plants in Pune, a key hotspot for the outbreak. The Maharashtra Health Department has reported a total of 192 suspected GBS cases across the state.

Out of the 192 suspected cases, 167 have been confirmed as Guillain-Barre Syndrome. The state has recorded seven deaths, one of which has been officially attributed to GBS, while six others remain under investigation.

Currently, 48 patients are receiving treatment in intensive care units (ICUs), with 21 of them on ventilator support. On a positive note, 91 individuals have recovered and been discharged after successful treatment.

In response to the outbreak, the Maharashtra government has stepped up surveillance and containment measures. One of the primary actions taken is the closure of 30 private water plants in Pune. Investigations have pointed to contaminated water sources as a potential factor in the rise of cases. Officials have urged citizens to avoid consuming untreated water and have intensified testing of local water supplies.

Public health experts and epidemiologists are conducting in-depth studies to determine the exact cause of the outbreak. Authorities have collected 80 serum samples and sent them to the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, for further analysis.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. The condition can cause muscle weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis. While the exact cause remains unknown, infections, including viral and bacterial illnesses, are often linked to its onset.

The symptoms typically begin with tingling and weakness in the legs, which can progress to other parts of the body. Early diagnosis and medical intervention are crucial to managing the disorder and preventing life-threatening complications.

Given the potential role of contaminated water, health officials have advised residents to take precautionary measures:

• Boil drinking water or use certified purification methods.
• Maintain proper hygiene and sanitation.

• Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness appear.