Three Individuals Die from Suspected Guillain-Barre Syndrome in West Bengal Hospitals

In West Bengal, three individuals, including a child, have died in the last four days. The deaths are suspected to be linked to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), though official confirmation from the state health department is pending. These fatalities occurred in government hospitals located in Kolkata and Hooghly district.

A senior health department official assured that the situation is under control and there is no cause for alarm. The deceased include Debkumar Sahu, aged 10, from Jagaddal in North 24 Parganas district; Aritra Manal, aged 17, from Amdanga in the same district; and a 48-year-old man from Dhaniakhali village in Hooghly district.

Suspected GBS Cases

Family members of the deceased believe that GBS, an immunological nerve disorder, caused their deaths. Debkumar passed away at BC Roy Hospital in Kolkata on January 26. The teenager from Amdanga died the following day while receiving treatment at NRS Medical College and Hospital.

The man from Hooghly district succumbed on Wednesday at a local hospital. "The hospital told us that the condition of Debkumar kept on deteriorating while being treated. They did not tell us that the cause of his death was GB syndrome, but in the death certificate the suspected GB syndrome was mentioned," said Govinda Sahu, Debkumar's uncle.

Ongoing Treatments

Currently, four more children with suspected GBS are receiving treatment at BC Roy Hospital and Institute of Child Health. This rare condition leads to sudden numbness and muscle weakness. Symptoms include severe limb weakness and loose motions.

Doctors explain that bacterial and viral infections often trigger GBS by weakening patients' immune systems. The health department continues to monitor the situation closely as investigations into these cases proceed.

The community remains vigilant as they await further updates from health authorities regarding these suspected GBS cases. Families affected by this condition are hopeful for clarity and support during this challenging time.