Pune: The outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), which started in early January, has shown a significant decline since March. As of March 16, a total of 230 cases have been reported, of which 183 patients (80 per cent) have successfully recovered and been discharged. Currently, 35 patients (15 per cent) are undergoing treatment, while 12 (5 per cent) have succumbed to the illness. The reduction in new cases and fatalities provides a sense of relief.
The GBS outbreak first emerged in the Sinhagad Road area of Pune, with patients initially experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, followed by limb weakness and paralysis. By the end of January, the number of cases had risen to 130, with an average of four to five new patients being identified daily.
The first fatality occurred on January 27 when a young chartered accountant from Dhayari passed away in Solapur. This incident intensified public concern. By February-end, the total cases had surged to 221. However, in March, only nine new cases were reported, bringing the total to 230.
In response to the rising cases, PMC’s health department, along with the state’s epidemiology, water supply, and animal husbandry departments, conducted extensive investigations. Testing of water and patient samples revealed the presence of Campylobacter jejuni, a bacteria known to trigger GBS. Additionally, contaminated water sources were identified in some areas.
A central health team inspected a well in Nanded and found that disinfection procedures were inadequate. Meanwhile, with the rising death toll and treatment costs reaching lakhs of rupees, announcements of financial assistance were made. So far, 12 deaths have been recorded, with a significant number of young patients affected.
Although the number of new cases and fatalities has declined, 16 patients remain on ventilators, and 24 are receiving intensive care. Since ventilator patients are in a high-risk category, their condition remains critical. However, medical reports indicate that two to three patients are recovering each week.