Maharashtra's Guillain-Barre Syndrome Outbreak: Unveiling the Causes

Maharashtra reported 224 Guillain-Barre Syndrome cases and 12 deaths by March 3. Investigations suggest prior Campylobacter infections as a cause. A central technical team investigated the outbreak, focusing on water sources. The state handles healthcare strengthening under NHM, with limited central assistance.

Maharashtra has reported a concerning total of 224 cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), resulting in 12 fatalities as of March 3, as revealed by Minister of State for Health, Prataprao Jadhav, in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.

The recent investigation attributes prior Campylobacter infections as the likely cause of GBS outbreaks in identified clusters. Central experts have been actively examining this concerning outbreak since January 2, targeting districts like Pune and Nanded for rigorous epidemiological research.

This inquiry, which encompasses studies of water systems and infection sources, underlies the state's responsibility for healthcare management, despite limited central financial aid, in line with the National Health Mission guidelines.

(With inputs from agencies.)