Siddipet woman with Guillain-Barré Syndrome admitted to KIMS; No travel history to Pune
Hyderabad: A 25-year-old woman from Siddipet, Telangana, is currently on ventilator support at KIMS Hospital in Secunderabad after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS).
Dr. Praveen Kumar Yada, a Consultant Neurologist, stated that while GBS is common in Pune, Maharashtra, the patient has no travel history to the area, nor does anyone in her family have a history of the condition. GBS occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system following infections such as fever or gastrointestinal issues.
The woman initially received treatment at another hospital for a week, but her condition deteriorated, prompting her transfer to KIMS Hospital for advanced care. Due to the severity of her symptoms, she is currently receiving full ventilator support.
A statement from the Neurological Society of Pune highlighted an outbreak of GBS in the Sinhagad Road area of Pune, where health authorities suspect a link to Campylobacter infection, often spread through contaminated food or water.
What is GBS?
Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare neurological condition where the immune system attacks the nerves, leading to weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing. Symptoms can progress rapidly over the course of several weeks. Treatments include intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and plasma exchange.
How Campylobacter Causes GBS
Campylobacter jejuni, a bacterium that can cause foodborne illness, has been linked to GBS. The infection, which may lead to diarrhea and abdominal cramps, can trigger an immune response that targets the nerves, leading to GBS within 1 to 3 weeks.
Symptoms of Campylobacter Infection:
• Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
Prevention Tips:
• Boil water before drinking.
• Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly.
• Cook meat and poultry to an internal temperature of 75°C.
• Avoid raw or undercooked foods, particularly eggs and seafood.
• Practice good hygiene, washing hands before eating and after using the toilet.
• Avoid sharing food or utensils during the outbreak.
When to Seek Medical Help:
• Sudden weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
• Difficulty walking
• Persistent or bloody diarrhea
Recommendations:
• Boil water before drinking or preparing food.
• Maintain good food hygiene.
• Avoid spreading rumors and cooperate with health authorities.
• Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of GBS or Campylobacter infection appear.
