Peru declares national emergency due to Guillain Barre syndrome

Peru: Hindustan Times reports that Peru has declared a national emergency for 90 days because of the Guillain-barre syndrome. This rare neurological disorder has claimed four lives over the past few days. According to various media sources, 160 people have been afflicted by the Guillain Barre syndrome. The South American nation had issued a health alert on June 27 over the rising cases of this disorder.

What is Guillain- Barre?

In this medical disorder, the body’s immune system attacks the nerves. The syndrome starts with a tingling sensation in the hands and feet and later spreads to the other parts of the body. This can lead to paralysis. Patients of the Guillain-Barre syndrome must be hospitalised for better medical care. Doctors aren’t sure what causes this syndrome but many patients reported the symptoms of Covid-19, Zika virus or gastrointestinal infection preceding six weeks of the onset of this condition. Mayo Clinic says there is no cure for Guillain-Barre syndrome. However, some medicines can reduce the symptoms of this illness. Most patients recover from Guillain-Barre while there are a few fatalities. Recovery may take several years. However, many patients are able to walk six months after the first symptoms appear, according to Mayo Clinic.

What are the symptoms of Guillain-Barre?

Some people report tingling in the face or arms. As this condition progresses, muscle weakness can turn into paralysis.

The main symptoms are:

• Needles and pin-like sensation in arms, ankles, toes or fingers.
• Weakness in legs that can spread to the rest of the body.
• Inability to walk or climb stairs.
• Difficulty in chewing, speaking or walking.
• Inability to move the eyes.
• Double vision.
• Rapid heart rate.
• Little or no control over bowel movement and bladder function.
• Difficulty in breathing.
• High or low blood pressure.

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