Waterborne Outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome in Pune: A Concern for Public Health
PUNE/CHENNAI: The tragic death of a 10-year-old boy at Chennai’s Institute of Child Health on January 31 marks Tamil Nadu’s first confirmed case of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). This has escalated the mortality count to seven since the onset of the outbreak last month.
Pune has been significantly affected, with five of the casualties reported in the region. The Maharashtra health department has identified the bacterium Campylobacter jejuni as the culprit behind this alarming outbreak. Evidence points towards waterborne transmission being the primary concern.
Understanding the Outbreak
Out of 70 stool samples collected from patients, 27 tested positive for C. jejuni, raising serious concerns about contaminated drinking water in the affected areas. “We do not believe this outbreak is foodborne,” said a senior health department official. The pattern of infections suggests a common source, which is linked to untreated water supplied directly from the Khadakwasla dam.
Authorities have reported at least 87 cases clustered within a 5km radius of the contamination zone. This situation has prompted the water supply department to enforce a minimum chlorine level of 0.2 ppm at all households to ensure safe drinking water.
Stay Informed and Safe
As the situation develops, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed and vigilant. Regular updates from health authorities can provide guidance on safety measures to take. For those interested in quality health products and preventive measures, Looffers.com offers a wide range of health-related items to keep you and your family safe.
Stay tuned for more updates, and prioritize your health and safety during these challenging times.
