Pune has reported 22 suspected cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder, primarily from the Sinhagad Road area. The patients, many of whom were admitted to intensive care units at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Poona Hospital, are presenting with symptoms such as limb weakness, fever, and loose motions.

Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) confirmed the development and stated that a team will be dispatched to the affected areas for close monitoring. “Blood samples from six patients have been collected and sent to the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Virology (ICMR-NIV) for further investigations”.

16 patients, including six children and ten adults, have been admitted over the past week. Of these, eight are on ventilator support. Most cases have emerged from localities like Dhayari, Sinhagad Road, and Kirkatwadi. Similarly, Poona Hospital has reported three patients from Sinhagad Road and Manik Baug.

Doctors suspect the cases are linked to an immunological complication triggered by either bacterial or viral infections. GBS is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness, sensory loss, and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties. Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is known to be effective.

The World Health Organisation notes that most GBS patients recover fully, though some may experience lingering weakness. The PMC is actively monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.