GBS Virus Outbreak in Pune & Mumbai: What You Need to Know

The GBS Virus is rapidly spreading in the state, especially in Pune, with over 100+ cases reported as of January 2025. Given the limitation of insufficient GBS virus information, the sudden outbreak of Guillain Barré Syndrome has made the country’s population more concerned.

Some GBS syndrome patients in Pune are put on ventilators, as the disease has affected their breathing ability. At present, there are very few patients below the age of 13 years, and the rest are all above 50 years, indicating the growing risk of this disease for the ageing population

Why is Pune Witnessing A Sudden Surge in Patients with GBS Virus?

The widespread spread of the Guillain-Barr virus in Pune is a big concern for the population. According to some online evidence, the main cause behind this outbreak is poor drinking water quality.

According to authorities, there was evidence that the affected areas of Pune where the GBS virus spread faced issues with drinking water contaminated with drainage water. However, there is no confirmed evidence to support this claim, and further investigation is conducted to determine the root cause.

GBS, or Guillain Barré Syndrome, is an autoimmune disorder that typically gets triggered due to a previous infection. With this disorder, your immune system starts attacking your nervous system in place of the pathogens that fight off bacteria.

This counterattack interrupts the regular functions of the nerves that are crucial to transmit signals around the body. As a result, you feel weakness in your muscles, tingling sensation in your limbs and other symptoms of GBS virus.

Guillain Barré Syndrome Cause

GBS Syndrome is not contagious. However, it is important to know the potential causes of this disorder so that you get the necessary medical help in
a timely manner. At present, there is no confirmed cause of the GBS virus that is backed by scientific evidence and medical research.

However, doctors believe the following health-related illnesses or issues can trigger this autoimmune disorder.

• Viral infections

• Lung infections

• Stomach infections

• HIV

• Hepatitis A, B, C and E

• Childhood vaccines (rare cases)

• Influenza vaccines (rare cases)

• Zika virus

• Epstein-Barr virus

• Cytomegalovirus

In most cases, the GBS viral disease can be triggered by any past infection, especially flu and HIV, and bacterial infections like diarrhoea or food
poisoning. However, some people develop GBS symptoms a few days or weeks after getting a vaccine, especially a flu infection vaccine.

Common Guillain Barré Virus Symptoms

Some of the most common Guillain Barr virus symptoms that require immediate medical attention include the following -

• Tingling sensation in your toes and fingers

• Sudden muscle weakness in your legs that gets worse with time

• Muscle weakness and pain moving up in the body

• Severe lower back pain

• Improper bladder control

• Fluctuating heart rate

• Inability to walk properly or climb stairs

• Difficulty in breathing

• Inability to perform basic face functions, like chewing, swallowing, speaking, etc.

• Partial or complete paralysis

.

-How To Diagnose GSB Virus Disease?

The process of diagnosing the GBS virus includes three things including -

Assessment of Symptoms - The first thing a doctor does is examine your medical history and assess the types and severity of symptoms. Based on this evaluation, they decide if further tests are required.

Nerve Conduction and Electromyography Tests - Doctors use these tests to check the functions of the nerves and muscles. This is crucial because it helps assess the impact of GBS on the body.

Spinal Tap - In this procedure, a needle is injected into the patient’s lower back to collect a cerebrospinal fluid sample. The sample is tested to determine the number of white blood cells and CSF protein levels.

Imaging Tests - Some patients are prescribed an MRI of the spine to rule out other potential causes of back pain or muscle weakness.

-Treatment of GBS Syndrome

Before we discuss the potential options for GSB virus treatment, you must know that there is no permanent cure for this disorder. However, the available treatment options provide relief for ongoing symptoms and reduce the risk of disease progression.

Let’s look at the two common treatments for the GB syndrome virus.

Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy (IVIG) - It is performed by administrating high doses of necessary antibodies from healthy individuals. In turn, it helps reduce the severity of the Guillain-Barr virus symptoms.

Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis) - In this treatment, patients with GBS syndrome are treated to remove harmful antibodies from the body, which helps stop the symptoms and reduce the potential progression of the disease.

Living with Guillain Barré Syndrome can be overwhelming and restricting, depending on the severity of the disease.

Upon diagnosis, recovery can take anywhere between 6 months and 3 years. Thus, here are certain things to keep in mind if you are living with GBS.

• Based on the physical symptoms, physical therapy is a good option to regain mobility and strength.

• GBS can be very draining emotionally, so you must connect with people who can help unload the stress. This includes counselling sessions, therapy,support groups, etc.

• Practice breathing exercises to keep your respiratory health in check.

• If you face too much weakness, use assistive devices like wheelchairs and walkers to complete everyday activities.

• Follow up with the doctor for regular checkups to stay updated on progress.

• Drink boiled water.

• Wash your hands regularly.

• Cook food thoroughly.

• Avoid packaged and street food.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Consume a nutritious diet.

• Get adequate sleep.

GBS virus is a life-altering health concern that causes mental stress and a significant financial burden for treatment. For example, an Intravenous Immunoglobulin Therapy injection costs approximately ₹20,000 each, and diagnostic tests also incur a fee.

Thus, having a health insurance policy can help you manage your finances during such medical emergencies. TATA AIG offers a wide range of health insurance policies that cater to individuals' specific needs.

All our plans offer comprehensive financial coverage for hospitalisation fees, post-treatment care, treatment costs and more. Moreover, you can customise your chosen plan with add-ons for additional coverage and avail of cashless hospitalisation anywhere in India.

The increasing number of GBS virus patients in Pune is alarming for the entire country. To benefit from early detection and timely treatment, you must have all the required information about this disease, especially symptoms.

GBS syndrome requires urgent medical attention, and any delay can result in prolonged health issues. Practice prevention before it reaches your city and secure your financial health and well-being with a health insurance policy from TATA AIG for added peace of mind.

Why are some GBS patients in Pune put on ventilators?

In Pune, some GBS patients struggle with respiratory issues, as GBS affects the muscles that help manage breathing. Thus, such patients are put on a ventilator to help them breathe normally with proper oxygen supply. It is not a mandatory treatment procedure, but depending on the impact of the disease, it is implemented.

Who has a higher risk of GBS virus?

People above the age of 50 years have a higher risk of developing GB syndrome. However, it can impact other age groups as well, so you must adopt the prevention tips mentioned above to reduce the risk.

Can I check the possibility of Guillain Barré Syndrome at home?

No, there is no way to diagnose GSB syndrome at home. The minute you notice any symptoms, you must seek medical consultation to rule out the possibility of GBS or get the right treatment to feel better.

Disclaimer: This is a general guide on the Guillain Barré Syndrome, its causes, symptoms and treatment. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. It is advisable to consult a qualified health professional for treatment in severe cases.