About

• Guillain-Barre syndrome is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves. It can cause weakness, numbness or paralysis.
• The condition may be triggered by an acute bacterial or viral infection, or a vaccine where a person’s immune system attacks peripheral nerves.
• Weakness and tingling in the hands and feet are usually the first symptoms. These sensations can quickly spread and may lead to paralysis.
• Guillain-Barre syndrome is rare, and the exact cause is not known. But two-thirds of people have symptoms of an infection in the six weeks before Guillain-Barre symptoms begin. Infections can include a respiratory or a gastrointestinal infection, including COVID-19.

Treatment

• Currently, there is no cure for GBS. 
• Special blood treatments such as plasma exchange and immunoglobulin therapy can relieve symptoms.

Why in News?

The number of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) cases in Pune has crossed the 100 mark, prompting state health minister Prakash Abitkar to visit the city to investigate the source of the outbreak.