GBS outbreak: Maharashtra reports two additional deaths; India toll reaches 21.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Death Toll Rises to 21 in India
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a condition where the immune system attacks the nerves. In India, the death toll from GBS has reached 21, with two additional deaths reported in Maharashtra on Monday.
Maharashtra is the worst-hit state, accounting for 17 deaths. In Pune, a 34-year-old man from Wagholi died at Sassoon General Hospital on Saturday, marking the ninth death in the city since the outbreak started on January 5. The man had experienced tingling in his limbs that quickly progressed to weakness. Within days, he lost strength in his limbs, neck, respiratory, and facial muscles, and struggled to swallow. Sadly, he never regained strength.
Nagpur also reported a GBS-related death, with an 8-year-old boy passing away on February 10 after being admitted to Government Medical College and Hospital on January 16. This brings Nagpur’s total GBS deaths to two.
Aside from Maharashtra, deaths have been recorded in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, each with one confirmed fatality.
In response to the rising outbreak, Union junior minister for AYUSH Prataprao Jadhav recommended putting travel restrictions in afflicted districts. “If the disease spreads from one region to another, travel restrictions may be necessary,”.
FAQ
1. What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)?
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves. It often starts with weakness and tingling in the legs, which can progress rapidly to muscle weakness or paralysis.
2. What is the current death toll from GBS in India?
As of the latest reports, the death toll from GBS in India has reached 21, with two additional deaths reported in Maharashtra.
3. Which state in India has been most affected by GBS?
Maharashtra has been the hardest-hit state, accounting for 17 of the 21 deaths in India, with Pune and Nagpur among the cities most affected.
4. How did the GBS outbreak start in Maharashtra?
The GBS outbreak in Maharashtra began around January 5, 2025. Since then, several people have been affected, with symptoms rapidly progressing, leading to multiple fatalities.
5. What are the symptoms of GBS?
Common symptoms of GBS include tingling or weakness in the limbs, which can quickly progress to paralysis. Patients may also experience difficulty swallowing, loss of strength in respiratory and facial muscles, and breathing issues.
6. What happened in the latest reported deaths in Maharashtra?
On February 10, 2025, two additional deaths occurred in Maharashtra. One was a 34-year-old man from Pune who experienced rapid loss of strength in his limbs and respiratory muscles. The other was an 8-year-old boy in Nagpur, who passed away after being admitted to the hospital in mid-January.
7. What is being done to control the GBS outbreak?
Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and providing medical care and support to affected individuals. Patients with severe symptoms are admitted to hospitals for treatment. Awareness campaigns and preventive measures are being implemented in the affected regions.
8. How can GBS be treated?
There is no specific cure for GBS, but early treatment can significantly improve recovery. Plasma exchange and immune globulin therapy are common treatments. Timely medical intervention is crucial in managing the symptoms.
9. Can GBS be prevented?
Currently, there are no known ways to prevent GBS. However, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms like weakness, tingling, or difficulty breathing.
10. How can people protect themselves?
While there is no direct way to prevent GBS, it’s important to follow general health precautions like avoiding infections and seeking prompt medical care if you experience any unusual symptoms.
For more updates on the GBS outbreak and health advisories, stay tuned to local health department announcements.
