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Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but serious neurological disorder that occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, often following an infection. In India, the situation has become concerning, with 149 suspected cases of GBS and 5 suspected deaths reported as of now. Of the 149 cases, 124 patients have been confirmed to have GBS, and 28 are currently on ventilator support. The situation is being closely monitored by the Maharashtra Health Department as the country faces this health challenge.
GBS begins with symptoms of weakness and tingling sensations, usually starting in the feet and legs, and often spreading upwards to the arms and upper body. As the syndrome progresses, patients may experience:
Muscle weakness that may worsen over time.
Loss of reflexes.
Difficulty breathing, requiring ventilator support in severe cases.
Numbness or tingling in the limbs.
Pain, including aching or cramping in the legs or lower back.
Difficulty walking or maintaining balance.
In severe cases, GBS can lead to paralysis or even death if not treated promptly. The condition typically develops days or weeks after an infection, such as a viral infection, gastrointestinal illness, or even a respiratory infection like COVID-19.
Currently, there is no vaccine or specific prevention for GBS, but there are measures to reduce the risk of the infections that may trigger it:
Timely vaccination for preventable diseases, including influenza and COVID-19.
Prompt treatment for infections, especially respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases, to prevent the onset of GBS.
Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals, can reduce the risk of infections that may lead to GBS.
India has seen a rise in the number of suspected and confirmed cases of GBS, particularly in Maharashtra, which is closely monitoring the situation. The health department has confirmed that 124 cases have been identified across the state, and 28 patients are in critical condition, requiring ventilator support. Many of the affected individuals have reported symptoms following a previous viral infection, although the exact cause in some cases remains unclear.
Authorities are working diligently to manage and treat the affected individuals and are providing intensive care for those on ventilators. Awareness programs are being launched to educate the public about recognizing the early signs of GBS, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
In conclusion, the situation in India remains under close observation, with medical professionals and health authorities continuing to work together to address this growing health concern. Early intervention and public awareness are crucial in managing GBS cases and preventing further complications.