At least two people died after a Guillain-Barré Syndrome outbreak in Madhya Pradesh's Neemuch district.
The officials have launched a drive to identify patients and ensure their treatment. The state health department has advised that the authorities establish a control room and a special ward for GBS patients at the local government hospital.
The state government has not yet ascertained how GBS spread in the town.
Over a dozen cases were detected in Manasa town. Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Public Health and Medical Education, Rajendra Shukla, also reviewed the situation.
While speaking to the reporters, Shukla said that the first GBS patients were identified on January 12, and they were admitted to hospitals in Jaipur and Ahmedabad. He said 14 GBS patients have been detected so far in Manasa.
He added that samples taken from a water purification plant and other places were found not to be contaminated. Blood samples of patients, food items and other items were also sent to the institute in Hyderabad, Kolkata and Pune for testing, Shukla added.
What is GBS?
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Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. It causes weakness, numbness and even paralysis.
The initial symptom of the disease usually begins with weakness and tingling in the hands and feet. In later stages, these sensations quickly spread and lead to paralysis.
There is no known cure for this disease. Though most people recover completely from GBS, in some it could be fatal.
What are the symptoms?
*Weakness in the legs that spreads to the upper body
*Double vision
*Rapid heart rate
*Low or high blood pressure
*Bladder control trouble or bowel function
*Severe cramp-like or shooting pain
*Trouble with facial movements, including speaking, chewing or swallowing
*Trouble breathing
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In many parts of the state, unhygienic water contamination had led to the GBS outbreak. Experts have pointed out that antecedent infections triggering the GBS could have spread through faecal-oral or droplet transmission, resulting in the outbreak. However, there are no conclusive studies regarding this.
When to seek treatment
Healthcare assistance should be sought when you develop symptoms, including:
*Tingling that started in your feet or toes and is now moving up your body.
*Weakness spreading in the body
*Shortness of breath when lying flat
*Choking on saliva