Maharashtra has reported 8 new cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in a single day, taking the total number of cases in the state to 67. Pune remains the most affected area in the state. Until Wednesday, the number of reported cases stood at 59.
According to the health department, Pune rural has recorded 39 cases, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) area has 13 cases, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) area has 12 cases, and 3 cases have been reported from other districts. Among the affected individuals, there are 43 men and 24 women, with 13 patients currently on ventilators. A total of 33 individuals below the age of 19 have been affected.
GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves. This damages parts of the nerves, leading to muscle weakness, loss of balance, and even paralysis.
Other symptoms include prickling, pins and needles sensations in fingers, toes, ankles or wrists, difficulty with facial movements, including speaking, chewing, inability to move eyes, difficulty with bladder control, and breathing problems.
Viral or bacterial illnesses are the most common trigger of this autoimmune disease. About 70% of patients have a viral or bacterial illness within 1 to 6 weeks before the onset of GBS.
Doctors have clarified that both children and adults can develop this condition, but it is unlikely to escalate into an epidemic. Most patients recover fully with proper treatment.
Measures Taken So Far
- A state-level team has visited the affected areas.
- Surveys have been conducted in Pune city and rural areas to assess the spread.
- Stool and blood samples of patients have been sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for testing.
Precautions to Follow
According to experts, there is no known cure for Guillain-Barre syndrome. However, some precautions can lessen the severity of the illness and shorten recovery time. Such as:
- Drink boiled and filtered water.
- Avoid consuming stale or uncovered food.
- Consult a doctor immediately if you experience weakness in your limbs or other symptoms.
