First suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome death in Maharashtra; Pune cases climb to 101

Maharashtra reports 1st death due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome Maharashtra has reported its first suspected death linked to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare but treatable neurological condition, amidst a significant outbreak concentrated in Pune. The total number of confirmed GBS cases in Pune has surged to 101, with 28 new infections reported. The suspected fatality occurred […] The post First suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome death in Maharashtra; Pune cases climb to 101 appeared first on PGurus.

Jan 27, 2025 - 07:00
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First suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome death in Maharashtra; Pune cases climb to 101
The state health department continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available

Maharashtra reports 1st death due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Maharashtra has reported its first suspected death linked to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare but treatable neurological condition, amidst a significant outbreak concentrated in Pune. The total number of confirmed GBS cases in Pune has surged to 101, with 28 new infections reported. The suspected fatality occurred in Solapur, but details remain undisclosed in the state’s health bulletin.

Rising cases and patient conditions

Of the confirmed cases, 16 patients are on ventilator support. A significant portion of those affected are children under nine years old, accounting for 19 cases, while the 50–80 age group comprises 23 cases. The first suspected case in the Pune cluster was reported on January 9, with subsequent tests identifying the presence of Campylobacter jejuni bacteria in biological samples. This bacterium is known to cause about one-third of GBS cases worldwide and is associated with severe infections.

Water contamination and preventive measures

Authorities have begun extensive water sampling in Pune to investigate potential contamination sources. Tests revealed high levels of E. coli in a well near the Khadakwasla Dam, Pune’s primary water reservoir. However, it is unclear if the well is in active use. Residents have been advised to boil drinking water and thoroughly cook food as a precautionary measure. Over 25,500 homes have been surveyed in a bid to identify more cases and trace the outbreak’s origin.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A treatable condition

GBS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves, often following a bacterial or viral infection. This can result in symptoms such as weakness and paralysis. While 80% of patients recover enough to walk independently within six months, some may require a year or more for full recovery. However, the treatment is expensive, with immunoglobulin (IVIG) injections costing Rs.20,000 each. A full course can require multiple injections, placing a significant financial burden on families.

Escalation of cases

Pune’s hospitals raised alarms earlier this month after noticing an unusual spike in GBS cases. On January 10, 26 cases were reported among newly admitted patients, and the count rapidly climbed to 73 by January 19. The current total of 101 has prompted urgent health interventions.

Government response: Free treatment for GBS

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced free treatment for GBS patients in Pune and surrounding areas. Specific treatment facilities have been designated:

  • Pimpri-Chinchwad residents: YCM Hospital
  • Pune Municipal Corporation residents: Kamla Nehru Hospital
  • Rural residents: Sassoon Hospital, Pune

Pawar emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling the outbreak, acknowledging the high costs associated with GBS treatment and the urgent need for accessible care. The health department continues to monitor the situation closely while working to contain the outbreak and prevent further fatalities.

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The post First suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome death in Maharashtra; Pune cases climb to 101 appeared first on PGurus.

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