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Health

GBS Syndrome: The Outbreak and the Do’s and Don’ts

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GBS Syndrome: The Outbreak, and the Do’s and Don’ts

The outbreak of GBS has spread a fear among the people. Over 100 cases have been detected thus far. The first case of Guillian Barre Syndrome was found in a 41-year-old male from Pune, with Pune Health Minister Prakash Abitkar confirming a death in the GBS outbreak.

Doctors in Pune have found the Campylobacter jejuni bacteria in the blood samples of people infected with GBS.

What is GBS – Guillian-Barre Syndrome?

GBS is a serious yet rare condition affecting people with a lower immune system. It mistakenly attacks part of the peripheral nervous system—the network of nerves that carries signals from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. It is a dangerous neurological disorder that affects the body, starting with numbness in the limbs and muscles and ending in complete paralysis.

How does GBS spread?

GBS is not contagious from person to person or through any environmental measures, such as contaminated water. Yet, GBS is spread by bacteria and viruses that are aligned with contaminated water.

Campylobacter jejuni is known to be a bacteria found in a person infected with the GBS. This is a type of bacteria found in uncooked poultry.

Symptoms of Guillian-Barre Syndrome

The most common symptoms of GBS are weakness and loss of sensation. Weakness mainly starts with the feet. Which eventually moves up to the arms, and face and eventually affects the breathing. Within the first 2 weeks, most people are already at their lowest due to weakness.

Due to loss of sensation and nerve damage, the brain sends in wrong and abnormal signals to the rest of the body. The tingling issues start on the feet and arms. The latter stages of GBS lead to paralysis in the person.

Do’s and Don’ts for Guillian-Barre Syndrome

1. Wash your hands regularly at frequent intervals.

2. Avoid contact with your face.

3. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

4. Eat home-cooked meals.

5. Get an adequate amount of sleep.

6. Have a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

7. If you feel any kind of symptoms, immediately visit your doctor at the earliest.

8. Keep yourself hygienic and stay sanitized.

Also read: 4 Achievable Health Resolutions to Transform Your 2025

According to expert doctors, this outbreak will not lead to an epidemic or pandemic. Patients who receive treatment at an early stage tend to make a full recovery. The State has set up a Rapid Response Team (RRT), to find what led to the sudden rise in the infection. Overall the infection is nothing major to fear if you follow basic hygiene and cleanliness.