Pune: Guillain-Barré Syndrome Is Linked To Bacterial Infections Caused Due To Contaminated Food And Water

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Pune: Guillain-Barré Syndrome Is Linked To Bacterial Infections Caused Due To Contaminated Food And Water

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Pune has reported 24 suspected cases of the rare neurological disorder, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), prompting investigations into the root cause. The Neurological Society of Pune revealed that a Campylobacter jejuni bacterial infection, likely from contaminated food or water, is behind these cases.

Among the 24 suspected cases:

    • 5 are within Pune Municipal Corporation limits.
    • 2 in Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation areas.
    • 16 from rural areas.
    • 1 from outside the district.
  • Hospitals managing the cases:
    • Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital: 10 patients.
    • Poona Hospital: 5 patients.
    • Kashibai Navale Hospital: 4 patients.
    • Bharati Hospital: 3 patients.
    • Sahyadri Hospital (Deccan): 1 patient.
    • Ankura Hospital (Aundh): 1 patient.

Two patients, one each at Kashibai Navale Hospital and Bharati Hospital, are on ventilators. Additionally, eight patients are receiving treatment in Intensive Care Units (ICUs).

Campylobacter jejuni enters the human body through contaminated food or water. This infection triggers Guillain-Barré Syndrome, where the immune system attacks the nervous system. “While the disease is treatable, citizens are advised to drink boiled water and avoid consuming food from unhygienic sources.

Health surveys are underway in affected areas to identify similar symptoms among residents. Samples from suspected cases and drinking water sources have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for testing. The results are expected to confirm the diagnosis and clarify the disease’s origin.

What Is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness, numbness, and even paralysis. Symptoms may last for weeks, with most patients recovering fully, although some experience lingering weakness.

Causes and Symptoms

While the exact cause of GBS remains unclear, it is often linked to infections. Common triggers include:

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  • Campylobacter jejuni (bacteria causing diarrhea).
  • Viral infections like influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, Zika virus, or cytomegalovirus.
  • In rare cases, flu vaccines have been associated with GBS.

Symptoms of Campylobacter Infection:

  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Nausea or vomiting

Public Advisory

Experts urge citizens to take preventive measures:

  • Boil drinking water.
  • Avoid consuming food from unregulated sources.
  • Seek medical attention for symptoms like persistent weakness, numbness, or gastrointestinal distress.

This timely response aims to contain the outbreak and ensure public safety.

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