Pune, Feb 3 (PTI) – The number of suspected Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases in Pune has climbed to 163, with five new cases detected on Monday, according to a health official. So far, five individuals have succumbed to the rare neurological disorder.
While no new fatalities were recorded on Monday, the official confirmed that the total number of confirmed GBS cases stands at 127. The breakdown of the 163 suspected cases includes 32 from Pune city, 86 from newly added villages under Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits, 18 from Pimpri-Chinchwad, 19 from Pune Rural, and eight from other districts.
Among the affected individuals, 47 have been discharged after treatment, while 47 remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and 21 require ventilator support.
Authorities have been investigating potential causes, with 168 water samples from different parts of the city sent for chemical and biological analysis at the Public Health Laboratory. Results indicate that eight water sources were contaminated, raising concerns over a possible link to the outbreak.
GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the limbs, and difficulties in swallowing or breathing. In severe cases, it can cause near-total paralysis. The syndrome is more commonly observed in adults and males, though individuals of all ages can be affected.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines.
