Special Correspondent
Pune: Amid lingering memories of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pune has reported a rise in suspected cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder. A total of 22 suspected cases have been identified, with patients reporting symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and weakness.
Doctors successfully treated a woman affected by this disorder, following which a team alerted the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). Reports suggest that patients with GBS-like symptoms have been admitted to Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Poona Hospital. Most of these cases are from the Sinhagad Road area.
In the past week, 16 patients exhibiting symptoms of GBS were admitted to Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital, including six children. These patients primarily hail from Dhayari, Sinhagad Road, and Kirkatwadi. Out of these, eight patients are on ventilators. Additionally, three patients have been admitted to Poona Hospital.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome is an extremely rare condition that affects approximately one in 100,000 people annually. It is diagnosed through nerve conduction tests and spinal fluid analysis. Treatments like IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) or plasma exchange can expedite recovery. While most patients recover fully, around 20% may face mobility challenges even six months after treatment.
PMC health officer Dr. Nina Borade stated that the corporation is vigilant about the situation. An emergency meeting has been called to assess the situation, and samples from six suspected cases within PMC limits have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for analysis.
Dr. Borade clarified that GBS is often secondary to other illnesses and commonly affects individuals aged 12–30 years. She assured that GBS is neither dangerous nor contagious, urging the public not to panic.
Efforts are underway to monitor and manage the situation effectively.
