Suspected GBS Cases in Pune Rise to 59; PMC Urges Caution, Not Panic

GBS Outbreak Sparks Concerns Over Unregulated RO Water Plants in Pimpri Chinchwad
The number of suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in Pune district has surged to 59, with 35 new cases reported in a single day, according to the state health department. Health officials have assured the public that preventive measures are in place, urging citizens not to panic.
Breakdown of Suspected Cases
As per the public health department, the cases are distributed as follows:
- 33 from Pune rural
- 11 from Pune city
- 12 from Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal limits
- 3 patients from neighboring districts receiving treatment in Pune
Hospitalization and Critical Cases
Among the 59 suspected patients, 39 are male and 20 are female, with 12 currently on ventilator support across various hospitals in the city.
Affected Areas and Investigations Underway
The newly reported cases have emerged from Nanded Gaon, Nandoshi, Kirkitwadi, Dhayari, and Khadakwasla, among other locations. The state Rapid Response Team (RRT) has already visited the affected areas, initiating surveillance and sample collection for testing at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.
Dr. Babita Kamlapurkar, joint director of health services, stated,
“Water samples from affected areas are being tested, and awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate the public. Private practitioners have been directed to report any suspected GBS cases immediately.”
PMO Takes Note, Local Authorities on High Alert
Amid the rising cases, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has sought a report from Divisional Commissioner Chandrakant Pulkundwar, who assured that containment measures are underway.
Possible Cause: Contaminated Food and Water
Dr. Nina Borade, health chief of Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), highlighted a concerning trend:
“Most patients had consumed outside food or water before experiencing initial gastrointestinal symptoms. These symptoms subsided within days but were followed by sudden weakness— a classic sign of GBS.”
In response, 17 surveillance teams have been deployed in high-risk areas like Nanded Gaon, Dhayari, and Nandoshi to track and contain the outbreak.
Understanding Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
GBS is a neurological disorder in which the immune system attacks the nerves, leading to:
- Weakness in limbs, neck, and facial muscles
- Tingling, numbness, and difficulty walking
- Severe cases may lead to breathing difficulties
Health officials stress that GBS is treatable, urging the public to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
For more updates, stay tuned.