Pune has recorded its first fatality from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) as cases surge to 111 in just three weeks. A 41-year-old chartered accountant is the first victim to the condition, which is linked to bacterial infections like Campylobacter Jejuni , often contracted through contaminated food or water.
Key Points About GBS Outbreak:
[1] Cause: Autoimmune disorder attacking peripheral nerves, often after infections.
[2] Symptoms:
- Tingling Sensation
- Muscle Weakness
- Difficulty in walking
- Severe Pain
- Paralysis in severe cases.
[3] Current Situation: 111 cases reported; 17 patients require ventilator support.
[4] Treatment:
- Immunoglobulin Therapy – Blocks harmful antibodies.
- Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) – Removes harmful substances from the blood.
- Supportive care – Ventilator support and physiotherapy.
[5] Preventive Measures:
- Maintain Hygiene and proper food handling.
- Avoid contaminated water and food.
- Seek early medical attention for symptoms.
- Ensuring safe drinking water and consuming thoroughly cooked meals
- Avoid eating from roadside food stalls where proper hygiene is not maintained usually.
[6] Guillain-Barre syndrome get triggered by :
- Most commonly, an infection with campylobacter, a type of bacteria often found in undercooked poultry or meat .
- Influenza virus.
- Cytomegalovirus.
- Epstein-Barr virus.
- Zika virus.
- Hepatitis A, B, C and E.
- HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
- Mycoplasma pneumonia.
- Surgery.
- Trauma.
- Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Rarely, influenza vaccinations or childhood vaccinations.
- COVID-19 Virus .
Although GBS is rare, its potential to cause severe disability and fatalities highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Public health authorities must investigate the outbreak's root cause and enhance awareness of symptoms and preventive measures.
