PCMC Orders Water Testing Amid 15 Suspected Guillain-Barre Syndrome Cases In Pimpri-Chinchwad
PCMC Orders Water Testing Amid 15 Suspected Guillain-Barre Syndrome Cases In Pimpri-Chinchwad
Pimpri, January 28, 2025 – A total of 15 suspected cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) have been reported in the city as of January 27. Considering the potential spread of the disease through contaminated water, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh has directed testing of water samples supplied by private tankers and distributed in jars for drinking purposes in the affected areas. Also, collecting information about the wells around the area has been mandated.
Commissioner Singh reviewed the situation during a joint meeting with the health and water supply departments at the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation’s (PCMC) headquarters. Officials present included Additional Commissioners Pradeep Jambhale Patil and Vijaykumar Khorate, along with key health, medical, and water supply authorities.
GBS affects the immune system, attacking nerves, and can impact individuals of all ages. While severe symptoms are rare, the municipal corporation has initiated measures to ensure the city’s water supply remains uncontaminated. Special instructions have been given to intensify the testing of water samples in areas where suspected cases have been identified.
Private wells, borewells, and tanker-supplied water will also undergo rigorous testing. Immediate action will be taken in areas where contaminated water is found.
Treatment facilities for GBS are available at PCMC’s Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial Hospital and other healthcare centers. Free treatment under the “Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana” and “Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana” is available at YCM Hospital and the New Thergaon Hospital.
As of now, 15 suspected cases have been reported, with all patients in stable condition. A total of 16 teams have surveyed nearly 4,000 households in affected areas without identifying additional cases.
Dr. Laxman Gophane, Health Medical Officer, reassured citizens that GBS is not a new disease and cases have been detected in the past. He advised residents to stay vigilant and seek medical attention if symptoms such as muscle weakness, tingling sensations, difficulty swallowing or speaking, or breathing issues occur. He also emphasized the importance of drinking boiled and cooled water while avoiding open or uncooked food.
For concerns or symptoms, residents are encouraged to consult PCMC hospitals promptly.
