GBS Outbreak: First Fatality Confirmed In Pune

A 41-year-old CA has been identified as the first victim of the GBS in Pune, which has experienced an increase in cases since early January. The victim, who was hospitalized in Solapur, died late Saturday after a protracted fight with the rare neurological condition, according to the Maharashtra Health Department.

At a press conference on Monday, state Health Minister Prakash Abitkar confirmed the fatality, saying, "It's a confirmed GBS case." The incidence occurred following the death of another patient in Solapur on January 25, who was first suspected of having GBS.

Commenting on the first fatality case, Solapur Government Medical College Dean Dr. Sanjiv Thakur said, "The patient, suffering from symptoms like breathlessness, weakness in lower limbs, and diarrhea, was admitted to a private hospital (in Solapur) on January 18 as he was on ventilator support on and off. He died on Sunday.

Following his death, the case was referred to the Solapur government hospital.

In fact, ever since the outbreak started, Pune has reported over 110 cases of GBS to date, with the number rising steadily over the past three weeks. Among the patients, at least 17 are on ventilator support, and seven have been discharged, Abitkar revealed.

GBS Prevention

In order to ensure safety, the government has issued an advisory. They advised residents to practice appropriate hygiene, drink boiled water, and seek medical assistance if needed. Furthermore, health officials are making concerted attempts to contain the outbreak and limit its spread as soon as possible.