Bacteria And Norovirus Detected In Pune Guillain-Barre Syndrome Samples: Who All Are At Risk

An outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder, has been reported in Pune, affecting over 60 people. According to media reports, health experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research–National Institute of Virology (ICMR-NIV) found norovirus and Campylobacter jejuni bacteria in some of the samples taken from the patients.

Viruses and Bacteria Linked to GBS

Norovirus, a highly contagious stomach virus, is known to cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach inflammation. Cases of norovirus have recently increased in other countries as well. In India, it is responsible for 70–85 per cent of diarrheal cases in children, mainly spreading through contaminated food, water, or contact with infected people.

Campylobacter jejuni, a common bacteria linked to foodborne illnesses, was also found in the samples. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this bacteria causes symptoms such as bloody diarrhoea, stomach pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome?GBS is a rare disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nerves, affecting movement, sensation, and even breathing in severe cases. It is often triggered by infections, particularly respiratory or gastrointestinal illnesses.

Dr Anshu Rohatgi, Vice-Chairperson of Neurology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, explained, "GBS can cause muscle weakness, numbness, and paralysis. In some cases, it may involve breathing muscles and swallowing, making it a life-threatening condition requiring immediate treatment."

Symptoms of GBS

Early symptoms of GBS include:

- Weakness and fatigue.

- Tingling or prickly sensations in the hands and feet.

- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

- Weakness in the face or body.

- Vision problems.

- Trouble swallowing, chewing, or speaking.

- Breathing issues in severe cases.

The Neurological Society of Pune has assured the public that GBS is treatable and urged people not to panic.

Possible Triggers of GBS

Dr Aditya Gupta, Director of Neurosurgery at Artemis Hospital, explains that GBS is most commonly triggered by infections like the flu or gastroenteritis. "GBS is often associated with prior bacterial or viral infections, however, the exact cause is still unknown. Though certain vaccinations have been associated with the risk of developing GBS, the benefits of those vaccines in preventing severe infections outweigh the risk for GBS," he said.

Age and Risk Factors

Dr Gupta explains that although GBS can occur at any age, the majority of affected adults are older than 50 years. "While GBS can affect people of all ages, it is more common in adults, particularly those over 50. Children are less likely to develop the condition, but it can still occur. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid severe outcomes," he said.

Treatment and RecoveryDoctors use treatments like intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or plasma exchange to help the body recover. Some patients may require breathing support in serious cases. Though there is no cure for GBS, many people recover well with timely treatment. Recovery can take weeks to several years, depending on the severity.

Precautionary Advice

Experts recommend practising good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding contaminated food and water, to prevent infections that might trigger GBS.

Health officials in Pune are closely monitoring the situation, and people experiencing symptoms are advised to seek medical attention immediately.

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