Two people have died following an outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare immunological nerve disorder, in Madhya Pradesh’s Neemuch district. In response, the state government has launched an intensive drive to identify suspected cases and ensure timely treatment, officials confirmed.
Authorities Intensify Surveillance and Treatment Measures
After health officials detected more than a dozen GBS cases in Manasa town, the state government directed local authorities to set up a dedicated control room and establish a special ward for GBS patients at the government hospital. In addition, officials have been instructed to strengthen medical preparedness to contain the outbreak effectively.
Deputy Chief Minister Reviews Situation on Ground
To assess the situation firsthand, Deputy Chief Minister and Public Health and Medical Education Minister Rajendra Shukla visited Manasa, located around 30 km from the Neemuch district headquarters. Following a review meeting with district officials, Shukla informed the media that doctors first identified GBS cases in Manasa on January 12. Subsequently, hospitals in Jaipur and Ahmedabad admitted the initial patients for advanced care.
So far, health authorities have confirmed 14 GBS cases in Manasa, which has a population of approximately 35,000. “Unfortunately, two patients have died. However, two other patients who were on life support are now out of danger,” Shukla said.
Understanding Guillain-Barré Syndrome
GBS occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. As a result, patients may experience sudden numbness, progressive muscle weakness, and in severe cases, difficulty in swallowing or breathing. In some instances, the condition has been linked to consuming undercooked poultry, unpasteurised dairy products, or water contaminated with sewage.
Government Bears Treatment Costs and Boosts Infrastructure
As reported by The Hindu, meanwhile, the state government has assured full financial support for the treatment of affected patients. Shukla stated that he has directed officials to deploy ambulances equipped with life-saving systems, ensure an adequate supply of medicines and injections, and strengthen hospital infrastructure to manage critical cases.
Awareness Drives and Door-to-Door Surveys Underway
In parallel, health teams have intensified awareness campaigns in Manasa to educate residents about preventive measures. Authorities have also begun door-to-door health surveys to identify individuals showing early symptoms and facilitate prompt medical intervention.
Cause of Outbreak Still Under Investigation
Despite these measures, officials have yet to determine the exact source of the outbreak. Preliminary testing of samples collected from a water purification plant and other locations has not revealed contamination. However, authorities have sent blood serum samples from patients, along with food and environmental samples, to specialised institutes in Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Pune for detailed analysis.