Wednesday 16 July 2025
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Outbreak in Pune Traced to Contaminated Water
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Health authorities in Pune have confirmed that the recent outbreak ofGuillain-Barr Syndrome (GBS), one of the largest recorded globally, was caused by the bacterium Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni), which entered the water supply in affected regions. The outbreak has impacted 166 individuals, with five fatalities and 21 patients currently on ventilator support.
GBS is arare neurological disorderthat begins with tingling or numbness in the feet and hands, progressing to muscle weakness and difficulty in movement. Symptoms typically worsen over two to four weeks, potentially leading to life-threatening complications in severe cases. Mortality rates vary from three to 13%, depending on the severity of symptoms and the quality of healthcare support available.
The outbreak in Pune has been traced to C. jejuni, a leading cause of foodborne infections and the primary bacterial driver of GBS worldwide. where monsoon-related outbreaks occurred due to contaminated water sources. A specific strain of C. jejuni has a sugar-coated outer layer that, in rare cases, mimics the molecular structure of human nerve cells. This similarity can trigger the immune system to attack nerve cells in a process known as molecular mimicry, leading to GBS.
Officials confirmed on Tuesday that the outbreak was caused by waterborne contamination rather than foodborne transmission. The first patient believed to be part of this outbreak was admitted on January 9.health authorities ruled out food as the source, as foodborne outbreaks typically follow a distinct pattern linked to specific points of consumption.
Investigations found that while water at supply sources (wells) had adequate chlorine levels, water sampled from affected households contained zero chlorine, suggesting contamination within the distribution system. In response, the civic water supply department has been directed to maintain a minimum chlorine level of 0.2 ppm in households receiving water from wells. scientists from the National Institute of Virology (NIV) are analyzing C. jejuni samples from Pune to determine if mutations have increased the bacterias impact on human health.
The outbreak has been concentrated in Nanded gaon, Sinhagad Road, Khadakwasla, Kirkatwadi, and DSK Vishwa, all within a five-kilometer radius of the Nanded City township. Health authorities have classified Nanded gaon as the primary outbreak zone. Other affected localities along major water supply routes include Sinhagad Road, Manikbaug, and Khadakwasla. officials have yet to determine the exact point at which C. jejuni entered the water supply.
In addition to immediate containment efforts, civic officials have been instructed to inspect storage tanks in housing societies to ensure water remains free from contamination. Public health experts emphasize the need for improved monitoring and infrastructure to prevent future outbreaks.
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