Two deaths reported due to Guillain-Barré syndrome in Andhra Pradesh; 17 cases currently under observation
PTC Web Desk: In Andhra Pradesh, a 45-year-old woman and a 10-year-old boy have died due to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare autoimmune neurological disorder, over the past 10 days, Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav announced on Monday.
The woman, identified as Kamalamma, passed away at Government General Hospital (GGH) in Guntur on Sunday, while the young boy died at a private medical college in Srikakulam 10 days earlier. "There are currently 17 active GBS cases. This is a non-communicable disease with an occurrence rate of up to two per one lakh population. These cases are within the normal range, and the situation is under control. The government is vigilant and providing the necessary medical support. There is no cause for public alarm as GBS is not contagious," Yadav assured.
The Minister linked the heightened concern to a recent incident in Pune, which brought the condition into the spotlight.
According to the health department, a total of 267 GBS cases have been reported in 2024, with 141 recorded in the first half of the year and 126 in the second half. On average, 25 cases are reported each month, most of which respond well to standard treatment. However, severe cases require immunoglobulin therapy and ICU care.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, and tingling. Although GBS is not a communicable disease, early diagnosis and timely medical intervention are essential to prevent serious complications.
- With inputs from agencies
