Maharashtra’s GBS Cases Surge: Pune Hit Hard, Water Contamination Suspected

Pune, Maharashtra: The number of suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases in Maharashtra has climbed to 163, with 127 confirmed cases, as five new cases were detected in Pune.

Health officials reported that the 163 suspected cases include:

• 32 from Pune city

• 86 from newly added villages in PMC limits

• 18 from Pimpri Chinchwad

• 19 from Pune rural

• 8 from other districts

Among the affected patients, 47 have been discharged, while 47 remain in the ICU, and 21 require ventilator support.

Authorities have also linked the outbreak to possible water contamination after 168 water samples from Pune city were tested. Eight sources were found to be contaminated, raising concerns about a potential cause of the surge.

GBS is a rare neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and in severe cases, paralysis.

A rapid response team (RRT) appointed by the state health department is investigating cluster areas, and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is expected to issue fresh public health guidelines soon.