Is GBS turning into new corona? 2 more deaths in Maharashtra, know all about the effect of this virus in India

Guillain Barre Syndrome is a rare nerve disorder where the immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system. Fatality tally, due to GBS in Maharashtra, has risen to three with a caseload of 130 cases as per Health Authorities number. This rise in cases has sparked a sense of panic with the looming question about GBS’ potential to become the next coronavirus.

“A total of 130 suspected patients and two suspected deaths linked to GBS have been recorded until now. Of these, 73 are diagnosed as confirmed GBS cases. Twenty-five patients are from Pune Municipal Corporation areas, 74 from newly-added villages under PMC, 13 from Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation areas, nine from Pune rural and nine from other districts,” an official said.

After the CVID-19 pandemic, the anxiety levels have risen pertaining to health problem outbreaks. While there is current uptick in number of cases in India, the infection is not new and has been found in countries before. Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar said, “There is nothing to fear, and treatment is available for the condition, ” allaying any apprehension building up regarding the disease.

Health authorities in West Bengal have also hinted at proper protocol to be in place to handle the rise in cases dissuading any cause of concern or fear of pandemic currently.

Guillain Barre Syndrome Effect in India

GBS is a serious illness that often progresses rapidly, making the patient bedridden in a few days. It is associated with damage to nerves causing severe weakness of limbs, trunk, and face. It is often followed by a bacterial or viral infection (such as diarrhoea causing Campylobacter Jejuni bacteria that wreaks havoc on the nerves.

“GBS is a very rare but potentially paralysing nerve disorder caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s own nerves. It is often triggered by gastrointestinal or respiratory infections,” Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Kerala State IMA Research Cell, told IANS.

The GBS outbreak in Pune and surrounding areas is likely linked to contaminated water sources. Campylobacter jejuni, a bacteria found in contaminated food and water, is believed to be the reason for the outbreak, reports PTI. The symptoms of GBS typically include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea before GBS onset.

Cases in Maharashtra and West Bengal

In Maharashtra, cases tally has reached 130 while three deaths have been reported. On the other hand, in Kolkata, four more children suffering from suspected GB syndrome were undergoing treatment. Three deaths have been reported in West Bengal state health department is yet to officially confirm the cause of the deaths.

All About Guillain Barre Syndrome

Symptoms:

• Sudden numbness
• Muscle weakness
• Tingling in limbs
• Diarrhoea or other gastrointestinal issues
•  Difficulty in speaking or swallowing
• Shortness of breath

In severe cases it may lead to sudden paralysis and pneumonia as well. Dr Pawan Ojha, Director – Neurology, from a Vashi-based hospital told IANS that it is important for the public not to panic over simple tingling/ numbness of limbs or face. “But GBS should be considered only when there is weakness of hand-grip, foot drop, or difficulty in raising hands above shoulder or rising above the ground.”

Prevention:

• Drink boiled water. Ensure proper water hygiene.
• Wash your fruits and vegetables before consuming them
• Always sanitise and properly disinfect dishes, kitchen post using raw meat.
• Cook food properly. Undercooked food can risk GBS virus
• Maintain proper hygiene personal and around you. Eat immunity building diet.