Rising GBS cases spur call for better hygiene, early treatment

Even as suspected cases of neurological disorder Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) continue to be reported from Pune and Kolkata, medical experts say it is a rare disease that affects 1-2 people per 1,00,000 in India annually. They recommend better hygiene practices and early medical attention to avoid or reduce the severity of the disease. A central government team of experts are coordinating with the state health authorities for effective public health interventions.

“GBS is a rare neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, often triggered by bacterial infections like Campylobacter jejuni or viruses. It causes progressive muscle weakness, starting with tingling in the feet and advancing to paralysis in severe cases” says Jaideep Bansal, senior director and HOD – Neurology, Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh. According to him, the symptoms peak within 3-4 weeks, but early treatment improves recovery. “Indian healthcare facilities are equipped to manage GBS using intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasma exchange. Timely intervention and rehabilitation are crucial for better outcomes. Increased awareness and early diagnosis can significantly reduce complications and improve prognosis”, Dr Bansal says.

While GBS itself is not contagious, infections that cause it can be prevented. “Ensuring access to clean drinking water, washing fruits and vegetables, and consuming properly cooked food are essential measures. Hand hygiene, avoiding crowded places during outbreaks, and staying up to date with vaccinations can also lower infection risks. The public should remain vigilant, follow hygiene practices, and seek medical attention if experiencing early symptoms”, Dr Bansal explains.

Individual attention to hygiene is of prime importance though the government's role is also critical in preventing such infections. “Governments must focus on preventing infections that trigger it. Strengthening food safety regulations is key, as Campylobacter jejuni spreads through contaminated food and water. Regular inspections, strict hygiene enforcement, and public awareness campaigns on safe food handling are necessary”, says Dr Vikas Mittal, Director – Pulmonologist, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi. Dr Mittal also recommends the expansion of vaccination programmes for influenza and respiratory infections in addition to promoting hand hygiene and encouraging mask usage in high-risk areas to control GBS cases. “Early detection systems should be established to monitor outbreaks, and hospitals must be equipped for prompt diagnosis and treatment”, he adds.

Meanwhile, the suspected cases of GBS have crossed 150 in Maharashtra. A couple of deaths have also been reported. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has deputed a high-level multi-disciplinary team to Pune to support the State health authorities in instituting public health interventions and management in view of the spurt in suspected and confirmed cases of GBS. While three experts from the National Institute for Virology (NIV), Pune were already supporting the local authorities the central team has now been expanded as a seven-member team with experts drawn from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Delhi and NIMHANS Bengaluru.