Mumbai Reports Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Woman
Mumbai recently confirmed its first case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in a 64-year-old woman, marking a worrying development amid increasing cases in Maharashtra. The patient, a resident of Andheri (East), was admitted to SevenHills Hospital on January 21, after presenting with symptoms of fever and diarrhoea.
As her condition deteriorated, medical tests revealed GBS, a rare neurological disorder often triggered by prior infections. The patient had reportedly been suffering from diarrhoea for several days before admission, which is consistent with the pattern observed in previous cases of GBS. While she remains stable, doctors continue to monitor her progress. This case has drawn attention due to its potential links with gastrointestinal infections, specifically the Campylobacter jejuni bacteria, a pathogen commonly associated with foodborne illnesses.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has verified the diagnosis, with health officials confirming that the patient had no recent travel history to Pune, which has been at the epicentre of a larger outbreak. Health experts emphasise the need to trace whether the infection was caused by food or water contamination, as GBS outbreaks in other regions have been linked to waterborne pathogens. Maharashtra has reported over 180 cases of GBS, with the majority originating from Pune. The state health department has linked many of these cases to contaminated water supplies, with Campylobacter jejuni identified as the primary culprit. The bacterial contamination has been responsible for multiple fatalities, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Experts note that while GBS is rare, its occurrence in clusters signals a potential public health concern. Dr Pratit Samdani, a senior physician at Breach Candy Hospital, explains that GBS can develop following an infection, with gastrointestinal and respiratory infections being common triggers. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to managing the condition effectively. In response to the outbreak, authorities in Pune have taken decisive action, sealing private water supplies in affected areas to curb further infections. The case in Mumbai serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing health risks posed by waterborne diseases, urging both local authorities and residents to remain vigilant.
