Maharashtra health officials have confirmed 167 cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) and are investigating 192 suspected cases across the state. So far, seven deaths have been reported, though only one has been officially linked to GBS, while six remain under review.
The outbreak has hit Pune the hardest, with cases reported across several areas:
- 39 cases from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC)
- 91 cases from newly added villages in PMC
- 29 cases from Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC)
- 25 cases from Pune Rural
- 8 cases from other districts
At present, 48 patients are in intensive care units (ICU), 21 are on ventilators, while 91 patients have been discharged after treatment.
Authorities Investigate Possible Water Contamination
Health officials have increased surveillance efforts after noticing a surge in cases in parts of Pune. On February 6, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) sealed 30 private water supply plants in Nanded village, Dhayari, and Sinhgad Road areas.
The decision came after water samples from these plants were found unfit for drinking. Some facilities were operating without proper licenses, while others were contaminated with E. coli bacteria or failed to use disinfectants like chlorine.
“Contaminated water may have played a role in this outbreak,” a PMC official said. “We are closely monitoring affected areas and ensuring that unsafe water sources are shut down.”
What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?
GBS is a rare but serious autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves, leading to muscle weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis. The exact cause of GBS is unknown, but it is often triggered by infections or certain environmental factors.
Symptoms can range from mild weakness to complete paralysis. While most patients recover with treatment, severe cases can be life-threatening if the breathing muscles are affected.
Government Response and Next Steps
On February 3, Union Health Minister and Maharashtra health officials held a high-level meeting to discuss public health measures, testing, and treatment efforts.
Authorities are closely monitoring patients, ensuring early diagnosis, and increasing awareness among healthcare workers to improve survival rates.
Health experts stress that early detection and proper medical care are crucial for managing GBS. While the exact cause of this outbreak is still under investigation, preventing exposure to contaminated water and seeking immediate medical help for any unusual weakness or numbness can help reduce risks.
