Maharashtra GBS outbreak: 12 deaths, no new cases, health dept urges safe water and hygiene

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Public Health Department has reported 12 deaths due to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in the state, with six confirmed cases and six suspected fatalities. No new suspected cases were recorded on Saturday.

According to the department’s statement, a total of 197 individuals have been diagnosed with GBS, while 28 cases remain under suspicion.

Among the reported cases, 46 patients are from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), 95 cases are from newly added villages in the PMC area, 33 cases are from Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, 37 cases are from Pune Rural and 14 cases are from other districts. 

So far, 179 patients have been discharged, while 24 remain in intensive care, and 15 require ventilator support.

“An autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system. Characterized by muscle weakness, and in severe cases, paralysis,” said the release.

The department described GBS as an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis.

Health officials have advised residents to ensure water quality by drinking only boiled water. People should consume fresh, properly cooked food and avoid stale or partially cooked meat, such as chicken or mutton.

Authorities have urged citizens not to panic but to seek immediate medical attention at government hospitals if symptoms appear. The public is also advised not to send water samples for independent testing but to rely on official municipal testing services.

For water sample testing and any information related to GBS, contact the respective help lines of Pune Municipal Corporation 020-25501269, 25506800 and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation 7758933017, said the release. 

IANS