In the latest update from Gujarat, there has been an increase noted in the incidences of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). Around 18 people have been diagnosed with it in the past 30 days at the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital (ACH).
Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare disorder wherein a person’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. So far, 18 people have been diagnosed with it in the past 30 days at the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital (ACH).
Several medical practitioners say that the rise in the cases cannot be attributed to a single cause. However, the GBS is often preceded by bacterial or viral infections which also include vector-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya and viral infections like Covid 19 or diarrhea.
Dr Rakesh Joshi, medical superintendent at the ACH said that out of the 18 diagnosed, four of them are admitted to the Civil Hospital. Dr Parth Patel who is a critical care specialist dealing with the GBS said there have been rainy days along with Covid 19 which could have led to the rise of viral infections. Complications due to the viral infections could have led to the rise in GBS.
He further added that in a non-pandemic year, the cases at ACH would be around 15.
Neurologist Dr Sucheta Mudgerikar at Apollo Hospitals in Gandhinagar said that they see GBS every year including the post-monsoon period. Currently, GBS is generally diagnosed after a cough and cold and not necessarily Covid.