ANDHRA PRADESH: The alarming rise of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases has left health officials and communities on high alert across India. The current outbreak has claimed the lives of twenty-one individuals, with the situation most dire in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. The recent fatalities, including two reported deaths—a 45-year-old woman and a 10-year-old boy—highlight the severity and unpredictability of this rare autoimmune disorder.
Kamalamma, the woman from Alasandalapalli village, succumbed to GBS after being admitted to Guntur Government General Hospital. Initially being treated at Giddalur Government Hospital, she faced significant health challenges as her condition rapidly deteriorated. Following three days of treatment, she was transferred to Guntur GGH, where GBS was confirmed on February 3. Despite receiving five days of IV Immunoglobulin treatment—a standard intervention for severe cases—her health worsened, leading to her placement on a ventilator due to cardiac complications.
Earlier this month, another tragic loss occurred when the 10-year-old boy from Srikakulam was declared brain-dead, having experienced similar symptoms of weakness and paralysis. These occurrences have prompted urgent action from health authorities, urging local communities to remain vigilant and report any symptoms of GBS, which may appear as sudden weakness or difficulty moving limbs.
On February 15, the Prakasam District Medical and Health Officer, Dr. T. Venkateswarulu, indicated growing concerns about possible contaminated water being at the heart of the outbreak. Water samples from local borewells are currently under testing, as officials suspect contamination from decaying animal carcasses as the potential source of the disease. This health crisis has triggered immediate sanitation measures within the village.
Meanwhile, the situation remains dire in Maharashtra, where the death toll has risen to 17 following reports of fatalities, including the case of a 34-year-old man who lost his battle with GBS at Sassoon General Hospital. This individual displayed symptoms such as tingling sensations in his limbs, which progressed rapidly to complete loss of strength, demonstrating how quickly GBS can take hold.
Union junior minister for AYUSH, Prataprao Jadhav, has stated the possibility of imposing travel restrictions to prevent the spread of GBS if dictated by the outbreak's scope. His comments come amid increasing pressures to contain the disease, as Maharashtra's Health Minister outlined the need for extensive community awareness and rapid response to potential symptoms.
The neurological impact of GBS is often severe, leading to various symptoms including numbness, weakness, respiratory issues, and challenges with bodily functions. The typical treatment involves therapies such as plasma exchange and immunoglobulin injections, which, though effective, can be prohibitively expensive. The cost of treatment may range anywhere from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh per course, necessitating significant financial strain on affected families. Thankfully, there are provisions through the Dr. NTR Vaidya Seva scheme, ensuring financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav reassured the public by stating, "There are 17 confirmed GBS cases now... this is not a sudden spurt of cases; this is normal." He confirmed the state experiences about 25 cases monthly, emphasizing the need for calm and proper treatment rather than panic.
Affected residents are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention should they experience symptoms. Although health systems are strained, government officials work tirelessly to stock medications, including immunoglobulin, to provide timely treatment to those afflicted.
The gravity of the situation remains apparent as the public health system responds to the dual emergencies of medical need and potential outbreak control. Health authorities stress the importance of community vigilance, sanitation, and participation to reduce risk factors associated with GBS. With collaborative efforts, officials hope to manage this urgent health crisis effectively and prevent any additional losses.