Pune: Rising cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome Cases Raise Health Concerns; What is This Disease?

Pune, January 22, 2024: Twenty-four cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) have been reported in Pune. The city’s three largest hospitals have notified health officials of the increase in GBS cases. Doctors have told the media that the most of the patients are from Sinhagad Road, Dhayari, and the nearby areas.

Out of 24 patients, 2 are on ventilators (1 each at Kashibai Navale and Bharati Hospitals), and 8 are under intensive care.

Dr. Vaishali Jadhav, PMC’s Assistant Medical Officer, stated that a team will monitor the situation in the affected regions. Reports suggest patients initially presented symptoms like fever and weakness. In Deenanath Mangeshkar hospital, six children and ten adults developed weakness in their limbs within the past week. Eight patients are on ventilators, and doctors are monitoring three critical cases at Poona Hospital.

The PMC Health Department has initiated an on-ground survey. Blood and urine samples from 8 suspected cases have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for testing, along with water samples for analysis. A Rapid Response Team, comprising senior public health officials, medical experts from BJ Medical College, NIV specialists, PMC health officers, and NGO PATH, has been set up to investigate and address the outbreak.

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. This condition can lead to weakness, numbness, and, in severe cases, paralysis. Although GBS can affect anyone, its exact cause remains unknown.

Recovery times vary, with most individuals improving within weeks to months. About 80% recover fully, while 15% may have residual weakness, and 5% face severe complications. Early detection and treatment, followed by rehabilitation significantly enhance outcomes.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

The symptoms of GBS usually appear suddenly and can progress rapidly over days or weeks. Common symptoms include weakness and tingling which often starts in the legs and may spread to the arms and face. People also experience difficulty in walking which can affect mobility and balance. It also causes neuropathic pain which is seen in the back and limbs. Autonomic dysfunction like irregular heart rate, blood pressure fluctuations, and difficulty breathing in severe cases. In extreme cases, GBS can cause total paralysis, requiring mechanical ventilation.