Solapur Man Suspected to Have Died from Guillain-Barré Syndrome as Cases Surge in Pune

A suspected case of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) has resulted in a death in Solapur, Maharashtra. This marks the first such fatality in the state linked to this rare nerve disorder. The deceased, a 40-year-old man from Solapur, reportedly contracted the disease during a visit to Pune, according to health officials.

State Health Minister Prakash Abitkar confirmed the death, noting that the patient had been experiencing symptoms like breathlessness and weakness in his lower limbs. He was admitted to a private hospital in Solapur on January 18 and was on ventilator support intermittently. Dr. Sanjiv Thakur, Dean of Solapur Government Medical College, stated that a clinical autopsy was conducted to determine the cause of death, which was primarily attributed to GBS.

Rising Cases and Health Measures

Pune has reported nine additional suspected GBS cases, increasing the total number to 110. Among these patients, 73 are men and 37 are women, with 13 requiring ventilator support. Health officials have surveyed over 35,000 homes across Pune and its surrounding areas to monitor the situation closely.

In response to the rising cases, stool samples were sent for testing at the National Institute of Virology (NIV). Out of 44 samples tested for enteric viruses, 14 were positive for norovirus and five for campylobacter. Additionally, 59 blood samples tested negative for Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya.

Water Contamination Concerns

The health department has also sent 34 water samples for chemical and biological analysis. Seven samples showed contamination. Minister Abitkar inspected a well in Nanded village on Sinhgad Road, where most cases have been reported. He emphasised that clean drinking water is crucial and measures are being implemented to ensure its supply.

The minister highlighted that GBS often affects individuals with weakened immunity. The high incidence in certain areas is suspected to be linked to contaminated water. Campylobacter jejuni bacteria, known for causing stomach infections, can trigger GBS when ingested through contaminated water.

Government Response and Support

The state government is taking steps to address this health issue by including GBS treatment under the Mahatma Phule Health Scheme. This scheme allows patients to receive free treatment up to Rs 2 lakh. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has assured budgetary provisions for tackling GBS cases.

Private medical practitioners have been urged to report any GBS cases to public health authorities. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has established a 45-bed facility at Kamla Nehru Hospital specifically for treating GBS patients.

Expert Assistance and Future Plans

A seven-member team of experts from the Centre has been deployed to assist Maharashtra in managing the increasing GBS cases. The Rapid Response Team continues its surveillance efforts in affected areas along Sinhgad Road.

PMC Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale stated that water samples from various sources have been tested without finding contamination so far. However, clean drinking water is being supplied via tankers to affected areas like Kirkatwadi and Nanded village.

Minister Abitkar stressed that private hospitals should not charge exorbitant fees for treating GBS patients. He advised them to visit empanelled hospitals for cost-effective treatment options.