Pune Reports 26 Guillain-Barré Syndrome Cases: Know Symptoms, Triggers, and Health Advisory

Pune, January 2025: A sudden surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in Pune has alarmed medical experts and health authorities. A total of 26 cases have been reported across three major hospitals, with patients primarily from the Sinhagad Road, Dhayari, and nearby neighborhoods. The outbreak has raised concerns due to the rarity of the condition and the clustering of cases within a short timeframe as Reported by TOI.

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)?

GBS is a rare neurological disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, causing symptoms such as:

• Weakness or numbness beginning in the legs and spreading to the arms and face.
• Paralysis in severe cases.
• Neuropathic pain, typically in the back and limbs.
• Autonomic dysfunction, such as irregular heart rate or blood pressure.
• In extreme cases, GBS can lead to breathing difficulties, requiring mechanical ventilation.

Most individuals recover fully, though about 15% may experience lingering weakness and 5% face severe complications.

Triggers for Guillain-Barré Syndrome

GBS is often preceded by bacterial or viral infections that disrupt the immune system, including:

1. Campylobacter jejuni: A bacterium found in undercooked chicken, linked to foodborne infections.
2. Viral infections like the Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and Zika virus.
3. In rare cases, certain vaccinations (e.g., for influenza or tetanus) may act as triggers, though the overall risk is minimal.

Details of the Pune Outbreak

According to Medical Experts:

• Hospitals typically report 1-2 GBS cases per month.
• This sudden spike to 26 cases in a week is “unprecedented and warrants further investigation.”

Affected patients have reported symptoms of diarrhea and abdominal discomfort before the onset of GBS, indicating a possible link to contaminated food or water.

Health Authorities’ Response

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a thorough investigation.

1. Expert Panel Formation:
   A committee of scientists from the National Institute of Virology (NIV) and epidemiologists has been set up to monitor the cases.
2. Sample Analysis:
   Samples from patients have been sent to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-NIV for further testing. Preliminary findings suggest the presence of Campylobacter jejuni in some patients.
3. Public Advisory:
   Residents are advised to:
   • Avoid consuming outside or undercooked food.
   • Maintain proper hygiene and ensure safe drinking water.
   • Seek medical attention immediately if experiencing weakness or tingling sensations. 

1. Current Measures and Recommendations

The PMC is closely monitoring the situation and working to prevent further cases. Citizens are urged to take the following precautions:

1. Boil drinking water to eliminate potential pathogens.
2. Avoid undercooked poultry and food from unhygienic sources.
3. Maintain hand hygiene, especially after using the restroom or before eating.

While the sudden spike in Guillain-Barré Syndrome cases is concerning, health authorities and medical experts emphasize that the condition is treatable with timely intervention. Public awareness and hygiene practices can play a significant role in preventing further cases.