Tue Jan 28 18:02:11 UTC 2025: ## Pune Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak Likely Due to Contaminated Water: Minister

**Pune, Maharashtra –** A recent outbreak of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) in Pune is likely linked to contaminated water sources, Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar announced Monday. The minister, following a review of the situation, stated that the 111 hospitalized suspected cases, including 17 on ventilator support, are largely concentrated in a single area lacking a water treatment plant. One death related to the outbreak has been reported in Solapur, involving a patient initially from Pune. Around 80 cases of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP), a symptom of GBS, have been identified, predominantly affecting those under 15 years of age.

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has responded by repairing water leaks, replacing drainage lines, and increasing water sample testing. Over 180 samples have been sent for analysis, and a survey of 65,000 residents is underway. The neighboring Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is also increasing its water testing efforts.

Abitkar assured the public that the number of cases is unlikely to increase further. He also announced that the state government will cap treatment costs to prevent overcharging at hospitals and urged patients to seek treatment at empanelled facilities. The government will issue standard operating procedures for water sources and treatment, and the minister advised residents to boil water before drinking. Increased funding under the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Scheme will cover treatment costs for GBS patients.

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