The recent outbreak of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in Pune, Maharashtra has taken everyone by surprise. The rising cases and two deaths have increased the panic among citizens. Due to the rarity of the disease, people are confused. Almost everyone has heard the name for the first time. A disease so rare and with a name unheard of, citizens don’t know what can be done to prevent GBS. In this blog, you will get a basic understanding of GBS, its symptoms and important tips to prevent it.

What is GBS?

GBS is an autoimmune condition, meaning our body attacks its own cells. In GBS, the body’s immune system attacks the nerves. It is a rare disease and the exact cause is not known. However, before the actual symptoms of GBS start showing up, the person experiences the symptoms of diarrhea or respiratory infection. The disease can be triggered by various bacteria and viruses. The main reason for the outbreak in Pune is Campylobacter jejuni, a bacteria often found in undercooked poultry and contaminated food and water. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a bacteria that causes pneumonia, can also cause GBS. Viruses causing influenza, dengue and chikungunya can also trigger the disease.  Rarely, any type of vaccination can also cause GBS.

How are people getting affected?

Water contaminated with Campylobacter jejuni is suspected to be the cause of the GBS outbreak in Pune. This bacteria spreads through contaminated food and water. As the body's natural response, it starts attacking the bacteria. But, when the body mistakenly starts attacking the nerves, it causes GBS within 1-3 weeks of infection. Infection with the bacteria can lead to diarrhea and abdominal cramps. The good news is that GBS is not contagious, which means it does not spread by touch. However, there is no known cure for GBS. It is a potentially life-threatening disease. GBS can affect people from all age groups. But, people with weak immunity and respiratory infections are more prone to it. 

Symptoms of GBS

The initial symptoms of GBS are diarrhea and abdominal pain.  Fever, nausea, cold and throat infection are some other symptoms that may occur. The actual symptoms of GBS are tingling sensation in toes, fingers or ankles, weakness in legs, difficulty with facial movements and trouble breathing.

Measures to prevent GBS 

1. Consume clean drinking water. RO and UV filters can help to remove pathogens from water. If you don’t have these filters, it is always recommended to boil water before consumption.
2. Avoid eating food from outside. If it is unavoidable, opt for cooked food options over raw and uncooked food.
3. Avoid processed foods.
4. If you are consuming any kind of meat and chicken, make sure it is thoroughly cooked.
5. Avoid drinking juices, soups, and milkshakes from outside.
6. Include good sources of antioxidants such as citrus fruits and blueberries. The fruits must be washed before consumption.
7. Make sure you wash fruits and vegetables with activated charcoal. To clean meat and chicken, marinate it with lemon, salt and turmeric and wash after 5-10 minutes with running RO water. 
8. Try consuming Kadha (herbal decoction) like oregano thyme tea and lemongrass tea to boost immunity. 
9. Make sure you are consuming adequate protein in your diet.
10. Supplements like Vitamin D, Zinc, Krill Oil can be included to boost immunity. A good immune support supplement is also recommended

While the disease might scare you, it is important to avoid panicking. Instead, be aware and take the necessary precautions to avoid getting GBS.