Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder, has recently emerged as a serious public health concern in Pune, India. The city, known for its education and IT sectors, has recorded around 160 cases since early January, with five suspected deaths and dozens of patients in intensive care. GBS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks nerve cells, causing muscle weakness, paralysis, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure. The outbreak has been linked to Campylobacter jejuni, a bacterial pathogen commonly associated with foodborne infections.
GBS typically begins with mild tingling and numbness in the hands and feet, followed by progressive muscle weakness. Within days or weeks, the condition can worsen, leading to difficulty in movement, speaking, swallowing, and, in extreme cases, breathing. The disorder is known to have a variable mortality rate, ranging from 3% to 13%, depending on the quality of medical care available. While many patients recover, some experience long-term complications, including chronic nerve pain and muscle weakness.
The primary cause of the current outbreak has been identified as Campylobacter jejuni, a bacterium known to trigger GBS in rare cases. Studies have shown that a specific strain of Campylobacter carries a molecular structure resembling human nerve cells. When the immune system attacks the bacteria, it may also mistakenly target nerve tissues in a process known as molecular mimicry.
This pattern was first observed in rural China, where Campylobacter infections were common due to exposure to contaminated water and poultry. Similar outbreaks have occurred worldwide, including in Peru in 2023, where over 200 suspected GBS cases led to a public health emergency. In Brazil, the Zika virus was linked to an increase in GBS cases in 2015.
One of the biggest challenges in managing GBS is the difficulty in diagnosing it early. Unlike bacterial or viral infections, there is no single test for GBS. Doctors rely on clinical symptoms, nerve conduction studies, and spinal fluid analysis to confirm cases. Given India’s uneven healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, many cases may go undetected or misdiagnosed.
While there is no definitive cure for GBS, two main treatments can help manage symptoms:
Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): This procedure removes harmful antibodies from the blood to reduce nerve damage.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) Therapy: A blood-derived treatment that helps regulate the immune response and prevent further nerve damage.
These treatments can significantly improve patient outcomes, but they require timely intervention and adequate healthcare resources.
In response to the outbreak, Indian health authorities have intensified surveillance and preventive measures. Over 60,000 households have been monitored, and water samples have been tested to trace the source of contamination. Residents have been advised to consume only boiled water, avoid undercooked meat, and maintain strict hygiene practices.
Since Campylobacter can spread through both food and water, authorities are investigating whether the outbreak is due to contaminated drinking water or infected poultry. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also deployed experts to support local health officials in monitoring and controlling the spread of GBS.
GBS remains a complex disorder with no guaranteed prevention method. However, strengthening food safety regulations, improving water sanitation, and enhancing public awareness can reduce infection risks. With better surveillance and rapid medical response, the impact of future outbreaks can be minimized.
For now, Pune remains on high alert, with health workers racing to contain the spread of Campylobacter and provide timely care to affected patients. While the outbreak highlights India’s ongoing public health challenges, it also underscores the need for better preparedness against emerging neurological and infectious diseases.
