A cluster of 24 suspected cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) has been reported in Pune, sparking investigations into its cause. The Neurological Society of Pune has identified a bacterial infection, Campylobacter jejuni, likely originating from contaminated food or water, as the probable trigger.
Breakdown of Cases
The reported cases are distributed as follows:
- Within Pune Municipal Corporation limits: 5 cases.
- Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation areas: 2 cases.
- Rural areas: 16 cases.
- Outside the district: 1 case.
Patients are being treated at several hospitals across Pune:
- Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital: 10 patients.
- Poona Hospital: 5 patients.
- Kashibai Navale Hospital: 4 patients.
- Bharati Hospital: 3 patients.
- Sahyadri Hospital (Deccan): 1 patient.
- Ankura Hospital (Aundh): 1 patient.
Currently, two patients are on ventilators (one each at Kashibai Navale and Bharati Hospitals), while eight patients are in Intensive Care Units (ICUs).
The Link to Campylobacter Jejuni
The Campylobacter jejuni bacterium, known to enter the body via contaminated food or water, has been identified as the underlying cause of these cases. Once in the body, the infection can trigger Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare neurological condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system.
- Symptoms of Campylobacter infection include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Nausea or vomiting
Understanding Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare condition with the following characteristics:
- Immune Attack: The body’s immune system targets its own nerves.
- Symptoms: Muscle weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis.
- Duration: Symptoms may last for weeks, but most patients recover fully, although some experience lingering weakness.
- Triggers: GBS is often linked to infections, including:
- Campylobacter jejuni (associated with diarrhea).
- Viral infections like influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, Zika virus, and cytomegalovirus.
- Rarely, flu vaccines have also been associated with GBS.
Public Health Measures
Authorities have launched health surveys in affected areas to identify residents with similar symptoms. Samples from patients and local drinking water sources have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for confirmation and further analysis.
Preventive Measures for Citizens
Experts recommend the following to curb the spread:
- Boil drinking water to eliminate bacterial contamination.
- Avoid consuming food from unregulated or unhygienic sources.
- Seek medical help for persistent symptoms such as:
- Weakness or numbness.
- Gastrointestinal distress.
A Coordinated Response
With investigations underway and health teams mobilized, the authorities aim to contain this outbreak and protect public health. As Pune grapples with this rare neurological challenge, the timely response serves as a reminder of the importance of hygiene and vigilance in preventing such infections.
