MP: Six test positive for GBS in Mandsaur village, 3 critical; woman with symptoms similar to GBS succumbs
Mandsaur: Multanpura village, located in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh, is currently grappling with an outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder. To date, six people have tested positive for GBS, with three recovering and three in critical condition on ventilators.
The recent death of a 19-year-old woman exhibiting symptoms consistent with GBS has heightened fears within the community.
The village, home to about 10,000 residents, has reported six confirmed GBS cases among people aged 2 to 21 years. While three patients have successfully recovered, the remaining three are fighting for their lives.
The death of the young woman, who experienced severe respiratory and swallowing difficulties, has sparked panic among villagers. Despite being treated in various hospitals, including Aurobindo Hospital in Indore, she could not be saved, and although GBS was suspected, it remains unconfirmed.
Poor sanitation
Compounding the health crisis is the village's poor sanitation, characterized by garbage accumulation, open drains filled with stagnant water, and muddy pathways. Local residents have expressed concerns that these unhygienic conditions could exacerbate the spread of infections. In response, four health teams, comprising 32 workers, are actively surveying homes to monitor and support residents.
Treatment can be costly
Treatment for GBS can be costly, primarily involving intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) injections, each priced at Rs 20,000 in private facilities. So far, health teams have surveyed 1,555 households, reaching 8,331 people. Among them, 56 have reported symptoms such as diarrhea, cough, cold, and fever, with 36 people currently under observation at home, receiving daily medical visits.
Dr Shubham Silawat, in-charge of the district hospital and the survey, said a person suffering from GBS may have initial symptoms like diarrhoea, fever, muscle weakness and tingling.
Mandsaur Collector Aditi Garg said some suspected cases of GBS have been reported in Multanpura village, but their number is still less.