Guillain-Barre Syndrome Outbreak: Pune Reports the 1st Death and 111 Confirmed Cases.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome Outbreak in Pune: First Death Reported Among 111 Cases

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: January 28, 2025

Summary: As the number of cases in the Guillain-Barré syndrome outbreak rises to 111 in less than three weeks, Pune reports its first death.

With 111 cases documented in just three weeks, Pune's unexpected Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) outbreak has sparked concerns. The first victim of this uncommon but dangerous neurological condition is a 41-year-old city chartered accountant.

Central officials and the Maharashtra health department are currently working feverishly to manage the crisis and pinpoint possible reasons. The outbreak began in early 2025, now spreading to a vast area, affecting Mumbai, Pune, Solapur, Kolhapur, and now Nagpur.

The first death in Pune was reported on January 27, authorities say the outbreak has expanded to over 111 verified cases. After using over-the-counter medication to treat his early diarrhea, the deceased's health worsened and he eventually developed respiratory failure and paralysis.

The outbreak has been linked to bacterial illnesses, particularly Campylobacter jejuni, which often spreads through spoiled food or water. To guarantee preventive actions, efforts are being made to look into the role of environmental elements.

What is Guillian-Barre Syndrome?

GBS is an unusual autoimmune disease that causes weakness, tingling, and sometimes paralysis when the body's immune system unintentionally targets the peripheral nerve system. Although the precise origin is unknown, diseases like respiratory or gastrointestinal disorders or, as experts in this outbreak suggest, exposure to bacteria like Campylobacter jejuni and norovirus often cause it.

The symptoms of GBS include tingling or numbness in hands and feet, weak muscles, imbalance, difficulty walking, pain in the back and limbs, and sometimes paralysis.