Maharashtra has reported its first death due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare immunological disorder that attacks the nervous system, causing sudden numbness and muscle weakness. A Pune-based Chartered Accountant succumbed to the disease, making this the first fatality linked to GBS in the state.
The man, residing in Pune’s DSK Vishwa area, initially suffered from diarrhoea before he traveled to his native village in Solapur district. After experiencing weakness, he sought medical care at a private hospital in Solapur, where doctors diagnosed him with GBS. Despite being transferred to the ICU for intensive treatment and initially showing signs of recovery, the patient later experienced severe breathing difficulties and passed away on Saturday. His relatives confirmed the death following the medical updates.
Guillain-Barre Syndrome, although rare, causes the body’s immune system to attack the nerves. Symptoms often begin after a digestive tract infection or respiratory illness and can progress rapidly, leading to muscle weakness, difficulty in movement, and, in severe cases, paralysis. GBS can also be triggered by infections like dengue, chikungunya, and bacterial infections, as well as post-vaccination complications.
Pune, where the outbreak of GBS has been most pronounced, has reported 73 cases, with 14 patients on ventilators. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has been on high alert, as the number of suspected GBS cases continues to rise. Recently, nine more suspected GBS cases were identified in the city.
Authorities have issued advisories to the public regarding preventive measures, urging citizens to consume boiled water and avoid eating food from open or unhygienic sources. Common symptoms of GBS include diarrhoea, stomach pain, fever, and nausea, which are often the initial indicators of the disease.
The state health department has also advised residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience sudden weakness in their arms or legs. Medical experts emphasize that while GBS is rare, it is treatable, especially when diagnosed early.
The Union Health Ministry has sent a team to Pune to investigate the outbreak, while the state government has taken several steps to manage the situation. Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar confirmed that GBS treatment will now be included under the state’s Mahatma Phule Jan Aarogya Yojana health insurance scheme. The scheme’s coverage for private hospital treatment has been increased from Rs 80,000 to Rs 1.60 lakh to ensure no financial burden on patients. Additionally, the state health minister assured that no extra charges will be allowed at hospitals for GBS treatment.
In a show of solidarity, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced that GBS patients would receive free treatment at the Kamala Nehru Hospital, managed by the Pune civic body.
While the situation remains concerning, authorities continue to monitor the outbreak closely, and the public has been urged to stay informed and follow health advisories to prevent the spread of this potentially dangerous syndrome.
Sources By Agencies
