Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar stated that the total number of cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in Pune has risen to 111 and 17 of them are under ventilator support. Due to the growing number of cases, Pune's civic body has established a separate ward in Kamala Nehru Hospital to treat free the afflicted patients.

Key Highlights:

• Case Rise: Pune GBS cases have increased to 111, out of which 17 patients are on ventilator.

• Special Ward Formed: One death having been reported, the Pune Municipal Corporation has developed a 45-bed special ward at Kamala Nehru Hospital for GBS sufferers.

Government Response:

• Health Minister Prakash Abitkar promised that the state health department and Pune Municipal Corporation are working together to handle the crisis.

• A group of medical specialists is being consulted in order to determine the cause and recommend preventive action.

• Patients diagnosed with GBS within the Pune Municipal Corporation's jurisdiction will receive free treatment.

Water Source Inquiry Outstanding:
The health minister recognized fears of a possible connection to water sources but indicated that inquiries into the water supply have yet to be undertaken.

WHO Team Visit:
World Health Organization (WHO) team, along with Pune Municipal Corporation Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale, paid a visit to Nanded village in Haveli tehsil to gauge the situation.

Statements from Leaders or Officials:

• Prakash Abitkar, Maharashtra Health Minister:

"Patients with GB syndrome are increasing in Pune, which has become a matter of concern. We will consult a team of experts to reach a definitive conclusion. The Pune Municipal Corporation and the Maharashtra Health Department are working diligently to prevent further cases."

• Dr. Rajendra Bhosale, PMC Commissioner:

"The WHO team and Pune Municipal Corporation are closely monitoring the situation to ensure a swift and effective response."The state government is acting proactively to tackle the increase in GBS cases, such as getting advice from experts and providing free treatment to victims. Tests to identify possible environmental or water-related factors are likely to start soon to avoid more outbreaks.