AP reports first death due to GBS; 16 cases in hospitals across the state, ET HealthWorld
Guntur: The first death due to Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) reported at Govt General Hospital (GGH), Guntur on Sunday. 60-year-old Kamalamma of Alasandalapalli village of Prakasam district died at GGH while undergoing treatment for the past few days. She had been on a ventilator since being admitted in the GGH four last week. Another four patients are undergoing treatment for GBS in GGH, Guntur, while another 12 patients diagnosed with GBS admitted to different hospitals in the state. Health minister Satya Kumar said that they have kept sufficient stocks of immunoglobulin for providing best treatment to the GBS patients. Guntur Medical College (GMC) principal and senior neuro-physician Dr NV Sundarachary said that there is no cause for panic with regard to GBS. He said that GGH had been regularly receiving GBS cases for the past several years and majority of the patients were discharged after recovery. “About 115 people were admitted to GGH since last March. Just around 65 cases required immunoglobulin while other cases were managed with simple drugs,” said Dr Sundarachary.
According to officials, the highest number of cases was reported in October, with 17 cases, while 13 cases were reported in September 2024. The trend is on the lower side when December got 10 cases and January, 2025 received 11 cases. GGH, Guntur received 7 cases in February till date. In fact, 16 cases of GBS reported in March, 2024 while it dropped 6 in April and 11 in May and 10 in June. August reported the lowest number of cases-3 while November reported nine cases. “A close analysis of the total admissions reveal that it is neither a new phenomenon nor a steep surge,” said a senior official.
Dr Sundarachary observed that treatment including plasmapheresis which is a procedure to remove antibodies from the blood and administration of IVIG to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system. He said that that they would also suggest supportive care, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and respiratory therapy, to manage symptoms and prevent complications. “Pain management, including medications and alternative therapies, to alleviate discomfort,” said Dr Sundarachary. He explained that most people with GBS recover fully, but some may experience residual weakness or numbness. He said that GBS can recur, but this is rare. “Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes,” he felt.
