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Mumbai, Feb 16 (IANS) – The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) of Maharashtra’s Public Health Department has reported a total of 181 confirmed cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) across the state. As of Sunday, no new cases were recorded.
The department also noted that 27 additional cases are currently under investigation as suspected GBS infections.
“A total of eight deaths have been reported so far. Of these, four were confirmed GBS cases, while the remaining four were classified as suspected GBS-related deaths,” the department stated.
Breakdown of Reported Cases:
- Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC): 42 cases
- Newly added villages in PMC: 94 cases
- Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC): 30 cases
- Pune Rural: 32 cases
- Other districts: 10 cases
Out of the total affected individuals, 131 patients have been discharged, while 42 remain in intensive care units (ICU), and 21 require ventilator support.
Symptoms and Preventive Measures
GBS is a rare neurological disorder that leads to sudden weakness in the hands or legs, paralysis, difficulty walking, and, in some cases, prolonged diarrhea.
In response to the outbreak, the Maharashtra government has taken proactive measures to contain the disease. A state-level rapid response team has visited affected areas, and Pune MC, along with rural district authorities, has intensified surveillance efforts.
“At least 6,977 water samples from different parts of the city have been sent for chemical and biological analysis at the Public Health Laboratory. Out of these, 85 water sources were found to be contaminated,” an official stated.
Authorities have urged citizens to maintain hygiene and ensure the consumption of safe drinking water. Recommendations include boiling water before drinking and avoiding stale or partially cooked food, especially chicken and mutton.
Ongoing Surveillance and Testing
House-to-house surveillance efforts have been carried out extensively, covering:
- 46,534 houses in Pune MC
- 26,160 houses in PCMC
- 13,956 houses in Pune rural areas
A total of 82 serum samples have also been sent to NIMHANS Bengaluru for Antiganglioside Antibodies testing.
The state government has appealed to private medical practitioners to notify public health authorities of any suspected GBS cases. Additionally, citizens have been advised not to panic as health officials continue to monitor and implement necessary control measures.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official reports from the Maharashtra Public Health Department and is intended for informational purposes only. Citizens are encouraged to follow updates from trusted health authorities and adhere to recommended precautions.
