Pune is witnessing a growing outbreak of suspected Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) as cases spread beyond the initial cluster in the Sinhagad Road area to multiple parts of the city. Public health officials report that new cases have surfaced in Thergaon, Mundhwa, Maval, Khed, Chikhali, Pimple Gurav, Wagholi, Dhankawdi, Talegaon, Chakan, Pimpri, Kothrud, Ravet, and Moshi, among other locations.
The outbreak initially affected areas like Nanded Gaon, Sinhagad Road, Nanded City, Khadakwasla, and Dhayari. However, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has yet to establish a common link between the newly emerging cases and the earlier cluster.
As of now, Maharashtra has recorded 158 suspected GBS cases, including 127 confirmed cases and five suspected deaths. Among these, 31 patients are from PMC areas, 83 from newly added villages under PMC jurisdiction, 18 from Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) areas, 18 from Pune rural, and eight from other districts.
Residents Express Concern
Residents are increasingly worried about the rising number of cases. “The spread from one area to many is worrying. We’re concerned for our children’s safety. The civic authorities must act quickly,” said Amol Jadhav, a resident of Kothrud.
Health Officials Urge Caution but No Panic
Dr. Nina Borade, health chief of PMC, reassured citizens that while the rising numbers are concerning, the situation is under control. She pointed out that Pune recorded 194 cases of GBS last year, indicating that the disease is not new but is now being systematically reported. “Citizens should not panic—these are sporadic cases. However, we’ve initiated surveillance in the newly affected areas,” she said.
In the Sinhagad Road cluster, officials identified a common water source as a possible cause, but no such link has been established for the new cases. The health department continues to investigate potential causes while strengthening containment measures.
Authorities Step Up Surveillance and Prevention
The local administrations, including PMC, PCMC, and Pune rural authorities, have ramped up surveillance efforts to control the outbreak. Dr. Laxman Gophane, health chief of PCMC, stated that 16 teams have been deployed for household surveys, covering over 13,232 houses so far. “Every day, we share updates on social media, emphasizing the importance of consuming only cooked food and boiled water. Citizens should not panic; we’ve taken preventive measures and are fully prepared,” he added.
Health Advisory for Residents
Health officials advise residents to remain vigilant for early symptoms of GBS, such as weakness, tingling sensations, and difficulty walking, and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. Authorities are also urging people to ensure proper hygiene and avoid consuming potentially contaminated food and water.
With efforts to contain the outbreak intensifying, civic authorities are closely monitoring the situation and working to prevent further spread of the disease.
Sources By Agencies