Pune (Maharashtra) [India], February 6 (HBTV): In a swift response to the growing Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) outbreak, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has sealed 30 private water supply plants in Nanded village, Dhayari, and adjoining areas on Sinhgad Road of Pune city. These areas have been identified as the epicenter of the outbreak. The action was taken on these plants over the past two days, according to a PMC official.

The PMC took action after collecting water samples that were found unfit for drinking. Some plants lacked proper permission to operate, while others were contaminated with Escherichia coli bacteria. Additionally, certain plants were not using disinfectants and chlorine to control contamination.

Nandkishor Jagtap, head of the PMC water supply department, stated that the action involved several private RO water plants in the area. The water samples collected were found unfit for drinking, and some plants were found to be operating without the necessary permissions from the corporation.

Jagtap further revealed that Escherichia coli bacteria were detected in samples from some of the RO water supply plants. It was also noted that certain plants were not using disinfectants or chlorine to control contamination in the water they supplied.

These water plants have been temporarily sealed, and the PMC is formulating a standard operating procedure (SoP) for these private water sources to resume operations and prevent the distribution of contaminated water.

The PMC's crackdown on contaminated water supply is a crucial step in containing the outbreak. As the situation continues to unfold, staying informed and taking precautions remains essential.

According to a press statement issued by the State Health Department, four new cases of suspected Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) were reported in Pune district, bringing the total number in Maharashtra to 170 as of Wednesday. Five suspected deaths due to GBS have been recorded. Among these cases, 132 have been confirmed as GBS. The distribution includes 33 patients from Pune MC, 86 from newly added villages in the PMC area, 22 from Pimpri Chinchwad MC, 21 from Pune Rural, and 8 from other districts. So far, 62 patients have been discharged, 61 are in the ICU, and 20 are on ventilators.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness and, in severe cases, paralysis.

(ANI)