Siddipet woman succumbs to Guillain Barre Syndrome, first GBS death In Telangana
Hyderabad: A married woman from Siddipet succumbed to Guillain-Barré Syndrome on Sunday, marking Telangana’s first fatality from the disease. GBS occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system following infections such as fever or gastrointestinal issues.
The 25-year-old woman, a resident of Sitharampally village in Siddipet Rural mandal died while undergoing treatment at a hospital. She has two sons under the age of five and recently gave birth to a daughter.
About a month after her delivery, she began experiencing nerve pain and fell seriously ill. She was given treatment at various hospitals in Siddipet and Hyderabad, including NIMS hospital. Despite best medical care, there was no improvement in her condition and she eventually passed away during the treatment for her rare neurological condition.
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.
