In light of the rising cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), the Rapid Response Team (RRT) of the state health department has instructed the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to promptly carry out an epidemiological survey in the affected areas along Sinhagad Road. The civic body has formed 100 teams to initiate the survey. The survey will target more than 2.5 lakh residents in areas such as Nanded City, Khadakwasla, and Dhayari.

According to officials, over 61 patients are currently admitted to various hospitals in the city. 

The newly reported cases include individuals from Pune City, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and rural areas of the district, such as Nanded Gaon, Nandoshi, Kirkitwadi, Dhayari, and Khadakwasla.

Dr. Babita Kamlapurkar, Joint Director of Health Services, stated, “The state Rapid Response Team has visited the affected areas, and surveillance measures are in place. Stool and blood samples from the patients have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for testing. Water samples from the affected regions are being analyzed at the state public health laboratory. Furthermore, awareness campaigns are being conducted to educate the public.”

Additionally, she said, “No need to panic as the health department is prepared with precautionary measures”.

Health officials were also tasked with investigating whether past Zika virus infections could be linked to the current surge in GBS cases. 

In response to the outbreak, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has sought updates on the situation from Divisional Commissioner Chandrakant Pulkundwar, officials have confirmed.

Dr. Nina Borade, Health Chief of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), stated that most patients had a history of consuming food or water from outside sources. “Initially, the patients reported gastrointestinal issues, which were resolved within a few days. However, they later experienced sudden weakness, a hallmark symptom of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS),” she explained.

A senior official from the Pune district health department, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “We have deployed 17 teams to carry out surveillance in affected areas such as Nanded Gaon, Dhayari, and Nandoshi. The surveillance efforts will be intensified in the coming days.”

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a treatable neurological disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves. This condition can cause weakness in the upper and lower limbs, neck, face, and eyes. It may also lead to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, difficulty walking, swallowing, or, in severe cases, breathing difficulties.