The first death from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in Andhra Pradesh was reported at Government General Hospital (GGH) in Guntur. A 60-year-old woman, Kamalamma from Prakasam district, died on Sunday after being on a ventilator for several days. She had been undergoing treatment for GBS since being admitted to the hospital last week. Alongside her, four other GBS patients are currently being treated at GGH, while an additional 12 patients are receiving care in other hospitals across the state. Health Minister Satya Kumar assured the public that there is an adequate supply of immunoglobulin to provide the best treatment for the patients.
Dr. NV Sundarachary, Principal of Guntur Medical College and senior neuro-physician, stated that there is no reason to panic over GBS cases, as the hospital has been treating such cases for years. Most patients recover with treatment, and only a small number require immunoglobulin therapy. The highest number of cases occurred in October 2024, with 17 cases reported, while January 2025 saw 11 cases. February has already recorded 7 cases.
The treatment for GBS includes plasmapheresis to remove antibodies from the blood and IVIG administration to reduce inflammation. Supportive care such as physical, occupational, and respiratory therapy is also recommended. Dr. Sundarachary emphasized that early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes, and most people recover fully, although some may experience lingering weakness or numbness.
In Karnataka, authorities are on high alert due to possible GBS cases after pilgrims from Maharashtra reported symptoms similar to GBS, including diarrhea. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao acknowledged the cases but assured the public that there is no evidence of an outbreak. The health department is closely monitoring the situation, especially in two taluks of Uttara Kannada—Yellapur and Haliyal. The suspected GBS cases among the pilgrims are being observed, and their samples have been sent for further testing.
In the past six months, about 30-35 GBS cases linked to the Campylobacter jejuni bacteria were reported in Karnataka, including among pilgrims. Dr. Suvarna Alladi, a neurology professor at Nimhans, confirmed that the hospital has seen around 90 GBS cases over the past six months, with 12-20 new cases being reported monthly.
What triggers Campylobacter jejuni growth and infection in humans?
Campylobacter jejuni infection typically occurs after consuming contaminated food or water. The primary sources include undercooked or raw poultry, unpasteurized milk, and untreated water. Cross-contamination during food preparation, such as using the same utensils or cutting boards for raw and cooked foods, can also spread the bacteria.
Poor hygiene practices, like failing to wash hands after handling raw meat or coming into contact with infected animals, increase the risk of infection. Outbreaks are more likely in areas with inadequate sanitation or poor food safety practices. Once ingested, the bacteria target the intestinal lining, causing symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and nausea.
Is Guillain Barre Syndrome contagious?
Dr. Pradyumna Oak, Director of Neurology at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai, explained that Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is not contagious. It is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks its own nerves. While GBS can be triggered by various respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, it cannot spread from person to person.
He also mentioned that the exact cause of the recent rise in cases is still being determined, but the outbreak may be linked to food or waterborne infections like Campylobacter jejuni. The future course of the outbreak will depend on identifying the cause and implementing effective preventive measures. Though GBS can affect individuals of all ages, those with a history of infections or weakened immune systems—due to surgery or chronic conditions—may be at higher risk.
Dr. Manish Chhabria, Senior Consultant in Neurology at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, emphasized the importance of early diagnosis as GBS can progress rapidly. The condition is more common in children and adults, particularly in tropical regions during the rainy season. He urged that individuals experiencing sudden, worsening weakness or numbness in their limbs that affects their ability to move or carry out daily tasks should seek medical attention immediately.
