Maharashtra Battles Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak: Hygiene and Diarrhoea Monitoring Key

Maharashtra is grappling with an outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), with cases reaching 211 and nine fatalities. State Health Secretary Dr. Nipun Vinayak is urging heightened vigilance and stricter hygiene practices to combat the rare neurological disorder. A key focus is the close monitoring of diarrhoea cases, as the health secretary emphasized the crucial link between gastrointestinal illness and GBS.  

Dr. Vinayak, along with other health officials, recently reviewed the situation in Pune, a hotspot of the outbreak. Pune’s municipal authorities have been directed to intensify surveillance of diarrhoea cases, comparing current numbers with previous data to assess the effectiveness of water chlorination efforts. “We need to ensure better health outcomes,” stated Dr. Vinayak, “and measures such as basic cleanliness, hygiene, and sanitation have to be prioritized.”  

Of the 211 GBS cases, 183 have been confirmed positive. While 139 patients have been discharged, 39 remain in intensive care, with 18 on ventilator support. Health authorities are collaborating closely with local, divisional, and municipal bodies, as well as water supply and animal husbandry departments. The Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Virology is analyzing samples, with Campylobacter jejuni and norovirus detected in several.  

A striking finding is that 34% of GBS patients reported prior episodes of diarrhoea, while 14% experienced acute respiratory illness. Nearly half of the patients, however, reported no preceding symptoms. Dr. Vinayak explained that GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder that can manifest four to six weeks after an initial illness, and often, the trigger remains elusive.

The possible connection between poultry and GBS is also under scrutiny. Dr. Vinayak stressed the importance of biosecurity measures at poultry farms, as C. jejuni bacteria can be present in poultry without causing illness in the birds themselves. Animal husbandry officials have been instructed to consult with veterinarians on this issue.  

In response, animal husbandry officials inspected 11 poultry farms near the Khadakwasala dam, collecting samples that revealed the presence of C. jejuni in 24 samples and norovirus in five from one farm. While no direct contamination of the dam was found, disinfection activities at the farms have been ordered. The investigation into the source of the outbreak continues, with a strong emphasis on public health measures and close monitoring of potential risk factors. The state is ensuring adequate resources are available, including ICU beds, ventilators, and IVIG medication.   Sources and related content