What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome? A rare neurological disorder affecting Pune residents
Pune reported six new suspected cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare nerve disorder. The total number of cases in the city has now reached 73. This includes 47 men and 26 women. Among them, 14 patients are on ventilator support.
The Maharashtra State Health Department is investigating this sudden rise in cases. A Rapid Response Team (RRT) has been formed to study the outbreak. Earlier this week, 24 suspected cases were initially reported.
What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare neurological condition. The World Health Organization explains that the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system in this disorder. It affects nerves that control muscle movement. It also impacts nerves that sense pain, temperature, and touch.
Patients may experience muscle weakness or lose feeling in their arms and legs. They may also face difficulty swallowing or breathing. Although the condition is rare, it can affect people of all ages. However, it is more common in adult males.
Experts have clarified that GBS cannot turn into an epidemic or a pandemic.
The Maharashtra State Health Department is closely monitoring the outbreak. The RRT is conducting surveys in affected areas. The Pune Municipal Corporation and local health authorities are also helping in these efforts.
Health officials have already surveyed over 7,200 homes in the city and nearby rural areas. Within the Pune Municipal Corporation limits, 1,943 houses have been checked. In Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, 1,750 homes have been inspected. Additionally, 3,522 houses in rural regions have been surveyed.
Officials are working to understand the cause of this outbreak. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
