GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 11th Feb. The Maharashtra Health Department has reported a total of 192 suspected cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in the state, with 167 cases confirmed so far. Officials have also recorded seven deaths, of which one was confirmed as GBS-related, while six remain under investigation.
The cases are distributed across various regions, including 39 cases from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), 91 from newly added villages in the PMC area, 29 from Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), 25 from Pune Rural, and 8 from other districts. As per the latest update, 48 patients are currently in Intensive Care Units (ICU), 21 are on ventilators, while 91 have been discharged after treatment.
Authorities Intensify Surveillance
The Maharashtra health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have intensified surveillance in affected areas. In response to the outbreak, on February 6, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) sealed 30 private water supply plants in Nanded village, Dhayari, and surrounding areas on Sinhgad Road, identified as the epicenter of the outbreak.
PMC officials took action against these water plants after testing samples, which were found unfit for consumption due to contamination. Several plants were operating without proper permission, while others were found to be contaminated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. Some also failed to use necessary disinfectants and chlorine to control contamination.
Central and State Governments Step Up Measures
On February 3, the Union Health Minister held a high-level meeting with key Maharashtra health officials and medical ministers to assess the ongoing outbreak. Discussions focused on public health measures, patient testing, and treatment strategies to contain the spread of GBS.
Understanding Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)
Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to symptoms like muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis. The exact cause remains unknown, but infections, including bacterial and viral illnesses, are known triggers.
With the outbreak being closely monitored, authorities urge residents in affected areas to follow safety advisories, consume only safe and tested water sources, and report any symptoms to healthcare professionals immediately.
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