Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare, potentially life-threatening neurological condition. In GBS, the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, causing muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis. India has recently witnessed a shocking increase in the number of GBS cases, with Maharashtra being the most affected state.
Current Status of the Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak
Until early February 2025, Maharashtra has witnessed a sudden spike in the number of GBS cases, affecting more than 100 people, including deaths. Most of the cases are centered in and around Pune city. Health authorities are busy trying to find the cause of the outbreak and are working on limiting its spread.
Causes and Risk Factors
Guillain-Barré Syndrome GBS is most frequently caused by infections, and the most frequent offenders are:
Bacterial Infections: Campylobacter jejuni, most frequently linked to undercooked chicken.
Viral Infections: Influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, Zika virus, and COVID-19.
In the present outbreak, authorities suspect that contaminated water sources were likely a major factor in spreading Campylobacter jejuni and norovirus, which resulted in the surge of GBS cases.
Symptoms of GBS
Symptoms of Guillain-Barré Syndrome GBS typically develop over weeks or days and may be:
Muscle Weakness: Beginning in the legs and progressing upwards towards the upper body.
Tingling or Numbness: Especially in fingers and toes.
Difficulty Walking: Loss of coordination and unsteady movements.
Facial Weakness: Inability to speak or swallow.
Respiratory Issues: Breathing difficulty in severe cases.
Treatment of GBS
Diagnosis and treatment must be done early to improve outcomes in GBS patients. Treatment includes:
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) Therapy: Giving high levels of immunoglobulins to lessen the immune system’s attack on the nervous system.
Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): Eliminating damaging antibodies from the bloodstream to improve symptoms.
Supportive Care: Watching for and treating complications like respiratory failure, heart arrhythmias, and infections.
Finally all you need to get rid from Guillain-Barré Syndrome care and support and stay clean and use mask in public.