New Delhi:
In a disturbing turn of events, Maharashtra has reported its first suspected death due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in Solapur, as the number of cases continues to surge in Pune. A 40-year-old man from Dhayari, Pune, who was undergoing treatment in a private hospital in Solapur, succumbed to the syndrome, marking a grim milestone in the ongoing outbreak.
The sudden rise in GBS cases has prompted a swift and comprehensive response from both the Maharashtra government and the Union Health Ministry. Health officials are now intensively investigating potential water contamination, particularly focusing on high levels of E. coli bacteria found in a well near Khadakwasla Dam, Pune’s main water reservoir.
As of the latest reports, over 100 cases of GBS have been confirmed in Maharashtra, with 81 patients from the Pune Municipal Corporation (MC), 14 from Pimpri-Chinchwad MC, and 6 from other districts. The outbreak has been centered in Pune, with new cases emerging daily. Among the affected, 16 patients are critically ill and require ventilator support, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Authorities have identified Campylobacter jejuni bacteria as a potential cause of the GBS cases, a bacterium known to trigger severe infections. A state-level rapid response team, along with a team from the Union Health Ministry, has been deployed to Pune to assess and contain the situation. Extensive surveillance efforts have been undertaken, with over 25,578 households surveyed to trace the source of the outbreak.
To address the growing concern, the Maharashtra government has revised the treatment costs under the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MPJAY) to Rs1.6 lakh per patient, ensuring better access to advanced treatment for affected families. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced that free treatment will be provided to GBS patients, with specific hospitals designated for different areas.
GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, often triggered by bacterial or viral infections. Symptoms include muscle weakness, numbness, and difficulties in breathing or swallowing, with diagnosis typically occurring within one to three weeks of symptom onset.
Residents have been advised to take stringent precautions, including boiling water, ensuring proper food hygiene, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms occur. Public awareness campaigns and targeted measures are being implemented to prevent further spread of the syndrome.
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