Nandurbar, Maharashtra: Health authorities in Maharashtra’s Nandurbar district have confirmed the first case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder, in an 11-year-old girl, sparking heightened vigilance across the region. The child, admitted to the district hospital on January 25 from Akkalkuwa taluka, remains in critical condition and is currently on ventilator support.
GBS, an autoimmune disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system, has recently seen sporadic cases across Maharashtra, with Nandurbar now joining Pune and other districts on the alert list. While two suspected cases were initially reported, only the girl has tested positive so far. Medical officials emphasize that GBS is neither contagious nor linked to COVID-19, urging citizens to avoid panic but stay vigilant for symptoms like muscle weakness or paralysis.
“The patient’s condition is serious but stable. We are prioritizing her care and monitoring the situation closely,” said a senior district health officer, requesting anonymity. “GBS is treatable if diagnosed early, and public health teams are proactively identifying potential cases.”
Infrastructure and Precautionary Measures
In response, the health department has allocated 20 adult ICU beds and four pediatric ICU beds at Nandurbar District Hospital. Water quality testing is also underway in the girl’s village to rule out environmental triggers, though officials clarified that GBS is typically post-infectious, often following bacterial or viral illnesses.
State health teams have intensified surveillance, particularly in rural areas, and are coordinating with national agencies to ensure rapid response protocols. “Citizens must report symptoms like tingling, unsteady gait, or breathing difficulties immediately,” advised Dr. Anjali Deshmukh, State Epidemiologist. “Awareness, not alarm, is key.”
Background and Global Context
GBS affects 1-2 per 100,000 people globally annually, with recovery rates high if treated promptly. Maharashtra’s uptick mirrors trends in other states, though experts stress it remains uncommon. The Nandurbar case highlights systemic preparedness challenges in India’s rural health infrastructure.
Authorities reaffirmed that the situation is under control, with no evidence of community spread. Further updates will follow as investigations progress.