In a significant surge of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Pune, the total number of patients has now reached 158, with 9 new cases reported on Sunday. Although no additional deaths have been recorded, bringing the toll to five, health authorities remain on high alert. Notably, patients on ventilator support decreased from 28 to 21, and ICU admissions dropped from 83 to 48. Hospitals report good recoveries, with 38 people discharged so far.
WHO teams are actively assisting local health officials with data management and “active case searches” to ensure suspected GBS patients receive timely diagnosis and treatment.
“The WHO is providing technical and on-ground field support to district- and state-level teams to empower responders with adequate resources, training and support systems,” said Dr Roderico H. Ofrin, WHO Representative to India.
Beyond Pune, a few GBS cases have emerged in other states, including West Bengal, Telangana, and Assam, some with severe presentations. While the exact cause remains under investigation, experts suspect contaminated water or viral infections (including dengue) could be triggers.
Clinicians are urged to remain vigilant, given the rarity and potential severity of GBS, which often presents with progressive muscle weakness, ‘pins and needles’ sensations in extremities, and, in severe instances, respiratory compromise.
Key Takeaways:
•Early recognition and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
•Look for rapid-onset limb weakness, areflexia and possible facial weakness.
•Close monitoring in ICU, especially for respiratory function, is critical.
•IVIg remains a mainstay of treatment.
