Pune: Amid reports of 15 suspected cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in the city, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation has begun implementing preventive measures to curb the potential spread of the disease. GBS, a rare neurological disorder, can affect individuals of all age groups, with severe symptoms appearing in a minority of cases.
Considering the possibility of the disease spreading through contaminated water, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh has instructed officials to conduct inspections of private wells, borewells, and water supplied via tankers. Furthermore, inspections of establishments distributing drinking water in jars have also been ordered.
A joint review meeting between the Medical and Water Supply Departments was held on Monday (January 27) to assess the situation. Attendees included Additional Commissioners Pradeep Jambhale and Vijaykumar Khorate, Health Officer Dr. Laxman Gophane, Dean of Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial Hospital Dr. Rajendra Wabale, and other senior officials.
The Commissioner emphasized the need for strict vigilance over the municipal water supply, ensuring no contamination occurs. Teams have been instructed to test water quality in areas where suspected cases are reported and collect data on wells for further inspection. Immediate corrective action will be taken if contamination is detected.
Free Treatment at Designated Hospitals
Treatment for Guillain-Barre Syndrome is available at Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial (YCM) Hospital and the newly inaugurated Thergaon Hospital. The treatment is covered under government healthcare schemes such as the "Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana" and "Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana." Patients can avail of free treatment under these schemes.
Extensive Home Inspections Conducted
To date, 16 special teams have been formed, with two teams assigned to each hospital unit. These teams have surveyed 3,986 homes in the city. No additional cases of GBS were found during the inspections. All suspected patients are reported to be in stable condition.
Advisory to Citizens
While GBS is not a new disease, citizens are advised not to panic. Dr. Laxman Gophane, Health Officer, stated that symptoms include limb weakness, tingling sensations, difficulty swallowing or speaking, shortness of breath, and respiratory problems.
He advised people to immediately seek medical advice if any symptoms are observed. He also urged residents to consume boiled and cooled water and avoid eating uncovered food.