Maharashtra is grappling with a deadly outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), as two new fatalities were reported over the last weekend, pushing the state's death toll to 17 out of the total 21 deaths recorded across India. This alarming surge has resulted in heightened health alerts and preventive measures being taken to contain the issue.
The latest victims include a 34-year-old man from Wagholi and an 8-year-old boy from Nagpur. The young boy succumbed to the condition on February 10 after being admitted to the Government Medical College and Hospital on January 16. Meanwhile, the adult, who developed symptoms on January 23, died at Sassoon General Hospital after deteriorations led to respiratory and facial muscle paralysis.
Reports state the man initially experienced loose motions followed by tingling sensations and weakness, which escalated rapidly—the loss of muscle power spread throughout his body, leaving him critically incapacitated within days. Dean of Sassoon General Hospital, Dr. Eknath Pawar, elaborated, "This loss of power progressed rapidly over the next three days, and by February 8, he had lost strength in the neck and respiratory muscles, necessitating mechanical ventilation. Unfortunately, he never regained strength, and we couldn't save him."
GBS typically begins with weakness or tingling sensations and can rapidly lead to paralysis, posing considerable risks, including respiratory failure. The disorder is often triggered by infections, particularly following episodes of gastrointestinal or respiratory illnesses.
To date, Maharashtra has become the focal point of the outbreak, evidenced by nine GBS-related deaths reported just within Pune since January 5. Health officials affirm they are closely monitoring the situation after confirming the presence of Campylobacter jejuni and norovirus in poultry samples within the state. These findings draw serious concerns about potential foodborne connections to the GBS cases.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has urged the public to thoroughly cook chicken to eliminate harmful bacteria. Joint Commissioner Suresh Annapure highlighted the risks of consuming undercooked chicken, stating, "Uncooked poultry can lead to contamination, and it is important to cook chicken properly to eliminate these bacteria." This precautionary measure is seen as part of broader health advisories aimed at preventing the spread of GBS.
Further complications arise from reports indicating multiple existing GBS cases. Medical professionals are engaged with numerous patients remaining under mechanical ventilation, with health checks and support measures being ramped up throughout Pune and other affected areas.
On February 17, Maharashtra's Pune Municipal Corporation authorized previously closed Reverse Osmosis (RO) facilities' reopening, introducing stringent quality checks to address drinking water quality concerns prevalent among GBS-affected districts. Though this measure aims to provide safer drinking water, the underlying issue of contaminated water—deemed one of the primary transmission factors for GBS—needs urgent attention.
Adding to public health pressures, Union junior minister for AYUSH, Prataprao Jadhav, suggested travel restrictions might be necessary should evidence arise confirming the contagious nature of GBS spread. "If the disease is spreading from one region to another, imposing travel restrictions may become necessary," Jadhav remarked during press interactions. Health officials assert, based on WHO and CDC guidelines, there is no evidence indicating GBS is contagious, though advisories are being continually updated to monitor the outbreak's progression.
Despite these measures, state authorities remain vigilant. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar urged the public to remain calm, stressing there is no need to panic. He reassured citizens, saying, "The state government has reviewed the situation. We are keeping a close watch, and there is no need to panic." This reassurance aims to alleviate public concerns impacting daily life amid the rising death toll due to the outbreak.
Authorities are also focusing on education and awareness surrounding GBS. Health professionals encourage awareness of early symptoms—seeking immediate medical care can be life-saving. Symptoms can include varying degrees of muscle weakness, mobility issues, and respiratory difficulties.
The government appeals to residents to exercise caution, maintain hygiene, consume safe food and drink, and stay informed through health advisories. These proactive measures, coupled with vigilant monitoring, are intended to contain the GBS outbreak effectively.
While health officials remain hopeful, the recent fatalities, increased hospital admissions, and swift progression of GBS symptoms heighten the urgency of medical and governmental response. Moving forward, the focus remains on comprehensive public health strategies to mitigate risks and educate communities about the dangers and responses associated with GBS.