Synopsis
Mumbai has reported its first case of suspected GBS involving a 64-year-old woman, bringing the total number of suspected cases in Maharashtra to 180. Authorities are urging vigilance and providing free treatment under state health schemes.Key Takeaways
- 180 suspected GBS cases reported in Maharashtra.
- First case involves a 64-year-old woman from Mumbai.
- 146 of the cases confirmed as GBS.
- 6 deaths reported, with 1 confirmed GBS case.
- Free treatment available under state health schemes.
Mumbai, Feb 8 (NationPress) The number of suspected GBS patients in Maharashtra has increased to 180 as of Friday, including the first known case of a 64-year-old woman from Mumbai diagnosed with this rare nerve condition.
The woman, residing in the Andheri East locality, was admitted to the hospital with a prior history of fever and diarrhea, which subsequently led to ascending paralysis. On the same day, four additional suspected GBS cases were identified across the state.
Out of the 180 suspected cases, 146 have been confirmed as GBS.
Thus far, there have been six fatalities, with one confirmed case of GBS and five others classified as suspected deaths.
The State Public Health Department reported that among the 180 patients, 35 hail from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), 88 from newly integrated villages in the PMC area, 25 from Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, 24 from Pune Rural, and eight from other districts.
At present, 79 patients have been discharged, while 58 remain in ICU and 22 are on ventilators.
Maharashtra's Public Health Minister, Prakash Abitkar, has urged residents to remain calm while ensuring proper water quality and consuming fresh, hygienic food.
Abitkar mentioned that Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda, who met with representatives from the state government on Monday, has called for the establishment of a Standard Operating Procedure to address the GBS outbreak.
The Union Minister has emphasized the need for collaboration among State Health, Urban Development, and other departments to efficiently oversee and implement strategies aimed at managing the outbreak.
Additionally, he instructed the state government to provide complimentary treatment to patients in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Union Health Ministry.
Abitkar confirmed that suspected GBS patients receive free treatment in hospitals operated by the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporations, and this care is also included in the state health insurance initiative, Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana.
