Thu Jan 23 23:06:16 UTC 2025: ## Pune Battles Outbreak of Rare Neurological Disorder: 59 Cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome Reported

**Pune, India** – A cluster of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases has prompted a health investigation in Pune, India. Health officials confirmed 59 people have been diagnosed with the rare neurological disorder, with 12 currently requiring ventilator support. The majority of cases (38) are men, while 21 women have also been affected.

The Maharashtra health department has assembled a team to investigate the sudden surge in GBS cases, which were reported as of Wednesday. While the exact cause remains unknown, doctors suspect recent bacterial or viral infections may be a contributing factor, weakening the immune system and triggering the autoimmune response characteristic of GBS.

GBS is a rare condition where the body’s immune system attacks its own nerves, leading to weakness, numbness, and potentially paralysis. Symptoms often begin in the feet before progressing upwards. Other potential symptoms include facial weakness, difficulty swallowing or speaking, vision problems, and severe pain. While prevalent in both pediatric and young adult groups, officials stress that GBS is not contagious and will not cause an epidemic or pandemic.

The condition is diagnosed through physical examination, nerve conduction velocity tests, and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid. Currently, there is no cure, but therapies are available to mitigate the severity of symptoms. Most patients make a full recovery with treatment. The health department assures the public that the situation is under control and investigations are underway to determine the cause of the recent increase in cases.

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