Kamla Nehru Hospital Special Correspondent
Pune: In response to the growing outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Pune, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has introduced a series of comprehensive measures aimed at supporting recovery and raising public health awareness. These initiatives include enhanced medical care, mobile healthcare services, and specialized rehabilitation programs to aid patients dealing with this rare neurological disorder.
One of the cornerstone efforts is the creation of a dedicated physiotherapy support unit at Laygude Hospital, designed for patients recovering from GBS after being discharged. Since recovery from GBS can be a prolonged and challenging process, physiotherapy is critical in helping patients regain mobility and strength. With trained physiotherapists now available, the PMC is committed to providing ongoing support to these individuals as they work towards full recovery.
As of February 1, the situation remains urgent. The civic health department reported 107 suspected GBS cases, with 76 confirmed cases, including 24 in Pune city and 73 in the newly merged villages. Currently, 17 patients are on ventilator support, while 20 have been successfully discharged after treatment.
In addition to the physiotherapy unit, the PMC has rolled out other significant measures to support residents:
Rehabilitation Programme at Laygude Hospital: This program helps patients navigate the challenging transition from hospital care to home recovery. Specialized medical care is provided during this phase to ensure smooth rehabilitation and improve recovery outcomes.
Mobile Hospital for Diarrhea Patients: In response to a spike in diarrhea cases, a mobile hospital was launched on January 31. Already, 80 patients have been treated, with the mobile facility providing crucial healthcare to residents in remote or hard-to-reach areas.
Enhanced Neurological Care: Kamla Nehru Hospital has been upgraded to include 15 ICU beds for specialized care. Neurologists are now available to offer expert diagnosis and treatment for GBS and other neurological conditions, ensuring high-quality care for affected individuals.
Public Awareness Campaigns: To educate the public about GBS, the PMC’s Solid Waste Management Department has launched a wide-reaching campaign using mobile vehicles and announcement trucks. This campaign aims to inform residents about symptoms, prevention, and treatment options, encouraging them to take proactive steps in protecting their health.
PMC health officials have also conducted visits to Kashibai Navale Hospital to review the progress of GBS patients and ensure that the treatment protocols are being followed correctly.
Through these multifaceted efforts, the Pune Municipal Corporation is taking decisive action to manage the GBS outbreak, support patients in their recovery, and safeguard the health and well-being of the city’s residents.
