Guillain-Barré syndrome outbreak in Maharashtra: 1st death in Mumbai

The first death due to the rare Guillain-Barré Syndrome was reported from Mumbai on 12th February 2025. A 53-year-old hospital staff of the V N Desai Hospital succumbed to the disease in a Mumbai hospital.

The total number of people who have died due to the Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Maharashtra has now reached 8.  

Pune has reported the highest number of patients suffering from the Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Maharashtra. At least 172 confirmed cases of the Syndrome and seven deaths due to it have been reported from Pune.

About the Guillain-Barré Syndrome

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease in which a person’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves of the person.

The disease affects the nerves of the body that control muscle movement and those that transmit pain, temperature, and touch sensations. 

The patient can suffer from muscle weakness, loss of sensation in the legs and/or arms, and problems in swallowing or breathing.

Cause of Guillain-Barré syndrome

According to the WHO, the cause of the Guillain-Barré syndrome is not known. 

It is likely to be caused by a virus or bacteria. 

In rare cases, vaccinations or surgery may increase the risk of people getting Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Symptoms and Fatality 

The Guillain-Barré syndrome is normally not fatal and most of the patient recovers without long-term neurological disorders.

Initially, the patient experiences a tingling sensation or weakness in the leg which spreads to the arms and face.

It can cause paralysis in the legs, arms, or face muscles of the patient.

Some patients whose chest muscles are affected, find it difficult to breathe.

In severe cases, the patient finds it hard to swallow or speak.

In some cases, the patient may die due to paralysis of the muscles that control breathing, blood infection, lung clots, or cardiac arrest.

There is no known cure for Guillain-Barré syndrome, but treatments can help improve symptoms of GBS and shorten its duration.