Guillain-Barre Syndrome GBS: Meeting in Mandsaur attended by Central and State Health Dept Teams; survey to be conducted in affected villages
A special meeting concerning Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) was convened in the Collectorate Chamber, Mandsaur, led by Collector Mrs. Aditi Garg. The Central team from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and health teams from the State Government participated.
During the meeting, it was emphasized that GBS is a rare and serious condition where the body's immune system attacks the nerves, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. Common symptoms include muscle weakness or paralysis, tingling or numbness in the extremities, pain or discomfort, balance and coordination issues, and difficulty breathing. GBS often follows a viral infection, such as those affecting the respiratory or digestive systems.
Conduct a comprehensive door-to-door survey in nearby villages: Collector
Collector Aditi Garg instructed the Health Department and the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department to conduct a comprehensive door-to-door survey in nearby villages. This survey aims to assess water and food sources, with the involvement of Asha workers and ANMs, who will also receive training for this initiative. The teams are tasked with identifying other diseases alongside GBS and investigating whether any family members of affected individuals are experiencing similar health issues.
Central and State Govt teams are expected to conduct thorough research
Central and State Government teams are expected to conduct thorough research, including microbiological testing of food and drinking water sources through food laboratories. Community outreach is also a priority, with a focus on educating residents about GBS and its symptoms.
Regular testing of water and food substances will be conducted
Regular testing of water and food substances in the Multanpura, Bhuniya Khedi, and Sanjit Naka areas will be conducted, along with sanitation measures. Supplies from these areas may be temporarily halted, and residents are advised to consume boiled water. Awareness campaigns will encourage people to report any feelings of weakness to healthcare providers promptly.
Proper hygiene to be maintained
Additionally, measures will be taken to maintain clean water tankers, ensure proper hygiene around poultry farms, and implement proper packing of water sources. Chlorine tablets will be distributed to ensure safe drinking water, with the Health Department tasked with maintaining adequate supplies.
Team members have begun meeting with suspected cases
Teams have already begun meeting with suspected cases, providing support in their homes, and collecting blood samples for testing. All samples have been sent for further analysis to aid in understanding and addressing the situation effectively.
Key participants in the meeting included Dr. Naveen Chharang, Additional Director, NCDC Alwar Branch (Team Lead), Dr. Narendra Arya, Assistant Professor at ABVIMS & Dr. RMI Hospital in New Delhi, Dr. Geetanjali, Director of NFL Kolkata, Dr. Vijay Kumar Tewatia, Joint Commissioner (AH), Dr. Vijay Nema, Scientist-F at ICMR-NIRTH, Jabalpur, representatives from the Jal Shakti Ministry, Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. GS Chauhan, and the District ISDP team.
Prakash Mumar Pandey