GBS Outbreak: Amid the rise in cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases in Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has urged the public to take strict precautions. However, Pawar reassured that there is no need for culling of poultry.
Health officials emphasise recommend ensuring proper food hygiene to minimise risks. After discussions with the Divisional Commissioner and health authorities, he confirmed that no direct link has been established between the disease and chicken consumption.
According to a report by Indian Express, more than half of the 207 cases of Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) reported in Pune are from areas within a 5-km radius from the periphery of Sinhagad Road.
The latest analysis by Pune district health department revealed that Campylobacter Jejuni (C. Jejuni) bacteria is one of the major triggers for the GBS outbreak in Pune. From among the several stool samples tested in the affected cluster, 25 were found to be positive for C. Jejuni and 11 for Norovirus, Indian Express reported.
The examination also confirmed the presence of coliform, E. coli, Norovirus and C. Jejuni bacteria in 40 water samples in the cluster. The analysis also showed that 90 of the 106 patients mainly relied on water from a particular well at Nanded village as well as from Khadakwasla dam. It was found that samples from 85 water sources were found to be contaminated.
The state government has been actively monitoring the situation, and health officials are conducting further investigations to determine the cause of the outbreak, India Today reported.
How to prevent Guillain Barre Syndrome?
In most cases, Guillain-Barré syndrome isn’t preventable. However, the following steps can help:
- Wash your hands often.
- Keep away from those who have the stomach flu or other infections.
- Eat healthily and exercise regularly to help boost your immune system.
- Clean and disinfect common surfaces such as tables and countertops, toys, door handles, phones and bathroom fixtures.
- Stay up-to-date with all vaccines.