NEW DELHI: Maharashtra reported its first suspected death linked to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Solapur, officials confirmed on Monday. In response, a seven-member central high-level expert team has been deployed to assist the state in managing and monitoring the rising GBS cases.
The deceased, reportedly a GBS patient, was employed in Pune and had returned to his native district of Solapur before his death.
As of January 26, a total of 101 GBS cases have been reported in Pune district, according to the Maharashtra public health department. Of these, 81 cases were identified within Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits, 14 in Pimpri Chinchwad, and six in other parts of the district.
The affected individuals include 68 males and 33 females, with 16 patients currently on ventilators.
In light of the growing cases, the state health department issued precautionary guidelines urging residents to maintain water quality by drinking boiled water and ensuring food hygiene. “Infection can be avoided by not storing cooked and uncooked food items together,” the department advised.
The department also urged citizens not to panic and to visit a government hospital if symptoms such as sudden weakness, difficulty walking, paralysis, or prolonged diarrhea are observed.
The state government has intensified efforts to combat the outbreak. A state-level rapid response team has visited the affected areas, while Pune Municipal Corporation and rural authorities have been instructed to enhance surveillance. So far, 25,578 households have been surveyed as part of the increased monitoring activities.
Water samples from various parts of Pune have been sent to the Public Health Laboratory for chemical and biological analysis. The health department is also conducting house-to-house checks in affected areas to identify potential cases early.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare condition in which the immune system attacks the nerves, causing weakness, numbness, or even paralysis. Symptoms typically begin with tingling in the hands and feet and can progress rapidly. While the exact cause remains unknown, most patients require hospital treatment.
