Pune: PMC Intensifies Surveillance As 24 Suspected GBS Cases Reported, State Dept Forms Expert Team
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Pune: Following the emergence of 24 suspected cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in the city, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched extensive surveillance across affected areas, particularly Sinhagad Road. The Maharashtra public health department has also constituted a Rapid Response Team (RRT) to investigate the potential causes behind the sudden spike in cases.
GBS is a rare condition where the immune system attacks the nerves, leading to symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or even paralysis. While its exact cause is unknown, it often follows viral or bacterial infections.
Dr. Nina Borade, PMC health chief, stated, “Surveillance teams are conducting door-to-door visits, collecting blood and urine samples from suspected patients, and testing water samples.” She confirmed that samples from eight patients have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for detailed analysis.
Currently, 24 suspected GBS patients are under treatment in private hospitals across Pune, with 16 from rural areas, five from PMC limits, two from Pimpri-Chinchwad, and one from Osmanabad. Patients range from 2 to 61 years of age, with only one reporting recent travel history to Karnataka.
Dr. Vaishali Jadhav, PMC assistant health chief, mentioned that five teams are monitoring affected areas, including Bajirao Road, Shivteerth Nagar, Dandekar Pul, and Parvati Darshan. “We are collecting data on water, food samples, and travel history. So far, no new suspected cases have been identified,” she added.
The RRT, led by Dr. Babasaheb Tandale from NIV, includes experts from BJ Medical College and state health departments. The team will analyze environmental and clinical factors to determine the cause and prevent further cases.
Surveillance efforts and investigations will continue to monitor the situation closely and ensure public safety.
