The central government has dispatched a high-level, multidisciplinary team to Pune to assist state health authorities in managing and implementing public health measures related to the rise in cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Maharashtra.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome is an autoimmune neurological disorder where the body’s immune system erroneously targets the peripheral nerves. Reports indicate that Maharashtra has seen over 100 reported cases of GBS, including one suspected fatality.
The team comprises seven specialists from various institutions, including the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) in Delhi, NIMHANS in Bengaluru, the Regional Office of Health and Family Welfare, and the National Institute for Virology (NIV) in Pune, as stated by the Union Health Ministry.
Dr. Pallavi Saple, the Dean at JJ Hospital in Mumbai, remarked that GBS is relatively common within the population, noting that hospitals typically admit “at least one or two cases” at any given time. While the medical community is familiar with GBS, the current concern is the emergence of multiple cases in a short time within a specific geographic area.
Dr. Saple explained that GBS typically occurs when the body, while trying to fight off an infection, inadvertently begins to attack its own nerves. The most frequent bacterial trigger for this condition is Campylobacter jejuni, known to cause vomiting and diarrhea. Although many individuals recover from GBS, a subset may develop severe complications.
The state health department is currently investigating the possible source of these infections, with indications that they may stem from contaminated water or food. Dr. Saple emphasized the importance of maintaining basic hygiene practices, such as consuming only boiled or filtered water and avoiding potentially spoiled or contaminated food.
GBS initially affects the lower limbs and can progress upward to the chest, potentially impairing breathing. She urged anyone experiencing weakness in their lower limbs to seek medical attention promptly.
Treatment for GBS typically involves Intravenous Immunoglobulins (IVIG), which may cost around ₹1 lakh in private hospitals, as multiple vials are generally required. However, this treatment is covered under the state health insurance program in Maharashtra, and IVIG is readily accessible in local markets. It is crucial that hospitals equipped to treat GBS also have ventilator support available for patients who may experience respiratory difficulties.
