A surge in Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases in Pune has alarmed residents, with many suspecting contaminated water supplies as the source of the outbreak. Health authorities have confirmed the presence of Campylobacter jejuni, a waterborne bacteria linked to the sudden spike in GBS cases, raising concerns about the safety of municipal water.

Key Highlights:
Surge in GBS Cases Across Pune:

• Over 180 people have been affected by GBS, with six fatalities reported.

• The outbreak began in Nanded Gaon and has spread to Kirkatwadi, Sinhagad Road, Khadakwasla, and other newly incorporated areas of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).

• Nearly 90 cases have been reported in these regions, with many residents experiencing neurological symptoms.

Campylobacter Jejuni Confirmed in Water Supply:

• On February 4, health officials confirmed the presence of Campylobacter jejuni in the water supply, identifying it as the primary cause of the outbreak.

• The bacterium, typically associated with foodborne illnesses, has infiltrated municipal water sources, heightening fears of further contamination.

Impact on Residents:

• The Chavan family’s ordeal highlights the severity of the outbreak. Their seven-year-old son, Sai Chavan, collapsed after suffering from diarrhoea and was diagnosed with GBS.

• Vikas Joshi, a resident of DSK Vishwa, expressed frustration over the contaminated water supply, stating, “There is no point in having a water filter here at home because the supply itself is so contaminated.”

• Residents are resorting to buying bottled water and boiling water before consumption.

Health Professionals Sound the Alarm:

• Dr. Santosh Rawale, a local physician in Dhayari, reported a significant increase in gastrointestinal issues, with patients fearing GBS.

• Many patients are presenting with stomach flu symptoms, prompting further investigations into the link between water contamination and GBS.

Statements from Residents and Officials:

• Noor Jahan Chavan, Parent of GBS Patient:

“We should never have trusted the corporation’s water. It was our mistake.”

• Dr. Santosh Rawale, Local Doctor in Dhayari:

“I now get 20 people every day with stomach flu or other infections, asking me if it’s GBS.”As GBS cases continue to rise, residents are demanding immediate action from the Pune Municipal Corporation and health authorities. There is growing pressure to thoroughly investigate the water contamination and implement preventive measures to avoid future outbreaks. For now, families like the Chavan's are left grappling with the devastating consequences of an unsafe water supply and an uncertain future.