Sun Feb 16 14:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Guillian-Barre Syndrome Death Raises Concerns in Andhra Pradesh
GUNTUR, Andhra Pradesh – A woman from Alasandlapalli in Prakasam district died on Sunday at Guntur Government General Hospital (GGGH) due to Guillian-Barre Syndrome (GBS). Kamalamma, the victim, had been on a ventilator for several days due to high fever and paralysis. The GGH superintendent, Ramana Yashaswi, confirmed her death.
This death comes amid a concerning rise in GBS cases in Andhra Pradesh. The rare neurological disorder, affecting only one or two people per 100,000, saw seven cases reported at GGH alone on November 11th. Patients arrived from Eluru, Prakasam, Palnadu, and surrounding Guntur areas. Two remain on ventilators. Two additional cases were reported in Kakinada. Currently, 17 individuals are receiving treatment for GBS in government hospitals across the state.
While not contagious, health officials urge caution. GBS, described as similar to paralysis, often develops after other infections. Severe cases can lead to muscle paralysis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications. The illness is believed to spread through contaminated food and water. The recent increase includes children and infants, adding to the concern.
Although GBS is not always fatal, timely diagnosis and treatment are vital. Risk factors include prior infections, consumption of contaminated food or water, and major surgeries. Early symptoms include weakness in the legs and arms; those experiencing these symptoms, especially following diarrhea or stomach aches, should seek immediate medical attention. Diagnosis is made through nerve conduction studies, electromyography, CSF analysis, and MRI scans.
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