Maharashtra reported its first suspected death from Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) on Sunday after a patient passed away at a private hospital in Solapur. In addition, the number of GBS cases in Pune has risen to 101, causing alarm among health authorities.

The deceased, a 40-year-old man, had been suffering from diarrhea along with cold and cough symptoms. He was admitted to the ICU on January 18, and his condition initially improved, allowing him to be moved to a regular room. An autopsy conducted by doctors at Solapur Government Medical College suggested that GBS may have been the cause of death, although further tests on brain, blood, and intestinal tissue samples are being conducted to confirm this. The final cause of death is expected within 15 days.

In Pune, the surge in GBS cases has been alarming, with 28 new cases reported in the last 24 hours. This has raised the total number of cases to 101, a sharp increase from the usual two cases per month. Currently, 16 patients are on ventilator support, and GBS symptoms have been noted in 19 children under 9 years old, as well as 23 people in the 50-80 age range. Laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of Campylobacter jejuni bacteria, which is a known trigger for GBS.

In response, health officials have stepped up water testing, particularly in areas with the highest case numbers. A recent test showed high levels of E. coli bacteria in a well near Khadakwasla Dam, which is Pune's main water source. However, it's unclear whether this well is currently in use.

As of Sunday, health authorities have surveyed over 25,000 households in an effort to identify more GBS cases and trace the source of the outbreak.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare condition where the immune system attacks the nerves after a bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms include weakness, paralysis, and other complications. While 80% of patients regain their ability to walk independently within six months, some may take up to a year or longer to fully recover.

Treatment for GBS can be expensive, with each immunoglobulin (IVIG) injection costing around Rs 20,000. To help families, Maharashtra Finance Minister Ajit Pawar has announced that GBS treatment will now be provided free of charge in government hospitals.

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