GBS Outbreak: Deadly Bacterium Detected Amid Rising Cases; 72 Water Sources Contaminated in Pune

Ziya Khan 7 days ago

45 1 minute read

Maharashtra’s Pune is currently grappling with an outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), and early investigations suggest the bacteria Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) as a key trigger. According to reports from Loksatta, tests conducted on patients have revealed the presence of Campylobacter jejuni and norovirus infections, raising concerns about the source of the outbreak.An official source, quoted by ANI, stated, “Bacteria Campylobacter jejuni is believed to be the cause of the GBS outbreak in parts of Maharashtra and Pune.

It acts as a trigger, and other tests have come back negative.” The bacteria was found in 20-30% of the samples collected from patients diagnosed with GBS, highlighting its potential role in the outbreak. However, investigations are ongoing to fully identify the root cause. Campylobacter jejuni is commonly associated with uncooked food and waterborne diseases.

Current Status of the Outbreak

So far, 8 deaths suspected to be caused by GBS have been reported in Pune and nearby regions. Out of 205 suspected cases, 177 patients have been confirmed with GBS. The state government revealed the distribution of cases: 41 patients are from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), 94 from newly added villages in the PMC area, 29 from Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), 32 from Pune Rural, and 8 from other districts.As of now, 113 patients have been discharged, 50 remain in ICU, and 20 are on ventilators. Most cases in Maharashtra are concentrated in Pune.Surveillance efforts have uncovered 72 contaminated water sources in the city. Samples have been sent to the State Public Health Laboratory for chemical and biological analysis, but test results are still pending.

Government Response

The Pune Municipal Corporation, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, and district health authorities have launched immediate surveys in affected areas. Health teams are actively searching for individuals displaying GBS symptoms. Surveys have covered 7,215 houses, including 1,943 in PMC areas, 1,750 in PCMC areas, and 3,522 in rural regions.Efforts are now focused on identifying contamination sources and addressing the outbreak to prevent further spread of the disease.