Mon Jan 27 07:12:32 UTC 2025: ## Maharashtra Grapples with Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak: First Suspected Death Reported
**Solapur, Pune, Maharashtra –** Maharashtra is battling a surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases, with the first suspected death from the illness reported in Solapur on Sunday. A 40-year-old man, who had initially shown symptoms of diarrhoea, cough, and cold, died after experiencing breathing difficulties. While initial autopsy findings suggest GBS as the cause of death, final confirmation awaits viscera analysis, expected within 15 days.
The Solapur case comes amidst a dramatic increase in GBS cases in Pune, where the number has spiked to 101 – a significant rise from the usual two cases per month. Twenty-eight new cases were reported in the last 24 hours alone. Currently, 16 patients in Pune are on ventilator support, with cases affecting individuals across age groups, including 19 children under nine and 23 individuals aged 50-80.
Laboratory tests have linked the outbreak to the Campylobacter jejuni bacteria, prompting authorities to intensify water testing. High levels of E. coli bacteria were found in a well near Khadakwasla Dam, Pune’s main water source, although its current usage remains unclear. The health department has surveyed over 25,000 households to identify further cases and trace the source of the outbreak.
GBS, a rare neurological disorder where the immune system attacks nerves, typically causes weakness and paralysis. While 80% of patients recover within six months, the treatment, involving costly immunoglobulin injections (approximately Rs 20,000 each), can be financially burdensome. To alleviate this, Maharashtra Finance Minister Ajit Pawar has announced free GBS treatment in government hospitals. The situation remains under close monitoring as authorities work to contain the outbreak and provide support to affected individuals and families.
First Piper 