New Guillain-Barre Syndrome Case Reported in Pune Amid Rising Suspected Cases

A new case of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) was identified in Pune on Tuesday, according to health officials. This brings the total number of suspected GBS cases to 111, with 13 patients currently on ventilators. Among these, 31 have been confirmed as GBS cases, while one patient has succumbed to the illness, stated a release from the state health department.

Seventeen stool samples tested positive for Norovirus, and five were positive for Campylobacter, according to the health department's release. So far, 57 stool samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for testing against an enteric virus panel. Additionally, 76 blood samples were tested at NIV, all returning negative results for Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya.

Water Contamination Concerns

The Public Health Laboratory received 110 water samples from various city locations for chemical and biological analysis. Eight water sources were found to be contaminated. In response, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale convened a meeting with relevant departments to address the disease's spread.

The Water Supply and Drainage Departments have been tasked with implementing measures in Pune city and the newly merged 23 villages. The Water Supply Department has been instructed to cover water tanks and wells with tarpaulin and fencing. Tanker operators supplying water will receive guidelines and advisories regarding disease prevention.

Healthcare Measures and Facilities

A 15-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is now operational at Pune Municipal Corporation's Kamla Nehru Hospital specifically for GBS patients. Treatment at this facility will be provided free of charge. GBS is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and potentially paralysis in severe cases.