Officials believe that Campylobacter jejuni is responsible for the recent outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Maharashtra, particularly in Pune.
Laboratory tests conducted at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune have detected the bacteria in 20-30% of the samples taken from GBS-positive patients. Since GBS is a post-infection syndrome, it usually appears two to six weeks after an infection.
Ongoing Investigations and Sample Testing
Health officials have collected numerous samples, which are currently being tested at NIV Pune. A source confirmed, “Campylobacter jejuni has been detected in a significant number of cases, and it is suspected to be the primary cause of the outbreak. However, investigations are still ongoing.”
Bacteria Linked to Food and Waterborne Diseases
Campylobacter jejuni is a well-known cause of diarrhea and is commonly linked to food and waterborne infections. Contaminated food, especially undercooked poultry, unpasteurized milk, and untreated water, can spread the bacteria.
Rising GBS Cases and Ventilator Support
The number of suspected and confirmed GBS cases in Maharashtra has now reached 203, with five new infections reported. Among these, 176 cases have been confirmed, and 20 patients require ventilator support.
Understanding Guillain-Barré Syndrome
GBS is a rare but serious condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves. This leads to muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the arms and legs, and, in severe cases, difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Eight Suspected GBS-Related Deaths in Pune
So far, the Pune region has reported eight deaths suspected to be linked to GBS. As reported by msn.com, health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as they work to determine the exact cause of the outbreak.