Maharashtra on Sunday reported the first suspected death due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in the state after a patient died at a private hospital in Solapur. Meanwhile, GBS cases in Pune have now spiked to 101, raising concerns among health authorities.
The victim (40) was suffering from diarrhoea and also had symptoms of cough and cold, according to reports. He was admitted to the ICU at a private hospital on January 18. After his condition improved, he was shifted to a regular room.
However, his health took a turn for the worse when he started experiencing difficulty breathing. He died right after he was readmitted to the ICU ward, according to reports.
Doctors at Solapur Government Medical College performed the autopsy and said the initial cause of death is suspected to be GBS.
Viscera samples, including brain, blood, and intestinal tissues, have been sent for further analysis. The final cause of death will be determined after receiving the reports in the next 15 days.
Pune is grappling with a surge in GBS cases. The number of cases increased by 28 in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of GBS cases in the city to 101. Typically, GBS cases do not exceed two per month, making the current spike unprecedented.
At present, 16 of the diagnosed patients are currently on ventilator support. Symptoms have been observed in 19 children under the age of 9, while 23 cases are reported in the 50-80 age group. Laboratory tests on patient samples have confirmed the presence of Campylobacter jejuni bacteria, a known trigger for GBS.
In response, authorities have intensified water testing, particularly in areas with the highest number of cases. Test results released on Saturday revealed high levels of E. coli bacteria in a well near Khadakwasla Dam, Pune’s primary water source. However, officials have not determined if this well is in active use.
As of Sunday, the health department surveyed 25,578 households in an effort to identify more GBS cases and pinpoint the source of the outbreak.
What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?
GBS is a rare condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks nerves in response to a bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms include weakness, paralysis, and other complications.
Doctors report that 80 per cent of affected patients regain their ability to walk independently within six months of discharge. However, some patients may take up to a year or more to fully recover.
