Pune GBS Outbreak: Not Just Water—New Study Points to Poultry as Possible Trigger
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Earlier this year, Pune faced a disturbing health crisis when over 200 people were diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare and potentially fatal neurological disorder. At least 12 lives were lost, and the sudden surge in cases sent shockwaves through the city and surrounding areas.
Initially, the outbreak was blamed on contaminated drinking water, sparking scrutiny of the municipal water supply. However, new findings from the National Institute of Virology (NIV) suggest that the cause may not have been water alone. Preliminary research now points to a possible link between the outbreak and poultry—specifically bacteria carried by chickens.
Dr. Naveen Kumar, Director of the NIV, said early evidence indicates a bacterial infection from poultry could have triggered the GBS cases. Though the investigation is still ongoing and the results aren’t conclusive, the new theory challenges the initial water-related suspicions and broadens the scope of the inquiry.
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The first GBS cases were reported on January 9, with Nanded village on Sinhagad Road identified as the outbreak’s origin. Among the 202 patients, 46 were from areas under Pune Municipal Corporation, 95 from recently merged villages, 34 from Pimpri-Chinchwad, and 40 from rural Pune.
The rapid rise in cases led to widespread fear, but no new infections have been reported since February 18. Despite the decline, questions remain about the effectiveness of water treatment and chlorination in the city.
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As researchers work toward a final report, the unexpected poultry link adds a new layer to the investigation. The findings could reshape public health strategies and help prevent such outbreaks in the future.
